Denver Mayor: 'Celebrate Those Who Went To Battle On Our Behalf'
DENVER (CBS4)- Freedom seemed to be the theme at the fifth annual Independence Eve celebration at Civic Center Park. This year's event attracted more than 100,000 people.
Gov. John Hickenlooper took the stage before the musical acts that included Hazel Miller and the a capella group MIX. He said it's important to pay tribute to those who have given everything to keep America free.
PHOTO GALLERY: Independence Eve
"What we've got is this moment right now. This is Independence Eve. This is the chance where we take a little time out of how busy we are and we think about all the people in the history of this country that have gone out and risked their lives and in many cases sacrificed their lives for our freedom," said Hickenlooper.
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"All of the freedoms that we enjoy, they helped create for us, so tonight we're celebrating them and I want you to give a hand to every first responder and every military veteran and every active military veteran out there!"
Denver Mayor Michael Hancock continued the freedom theme during his speech.
"I want to encourage each and every one of us to not forget what this weekend is all about. This is the day, the weekend we celebrate the independence of the greatest nation ever in the world," said Hancock.
"And we celebrate all those folks who have gone to battle on our behalf around the world. We thank you. Let us not ever forget those who did not return home and let us not ever forget those who went for us to represent and to protect and serve including those who are here, our Denver Police officers, our firefighters, our paramedics, our sheriffs, give it up for our men and women in uniform. Enjoy your independence weekend! God bless you all!"