Thousands of members of the local and surrounding communities attended the 24th annual Independence Day celebration at Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany, June 29.

This year, the family-friendly event attracted nearly 5,000 people. Most of the crowd chose to wait out the heat and didn't arrive until after 7 p.m. when the 90-plus degree temperatures cooled off.

Guests had free access to several activities on the installation, which included a military working dog demonstration, a balloon show, water slides and inflatables.

For the past 23 years, MCLB Albany has opened its gates to the general public.

There were 12 vendors, which included 11 food vendors and one toy vendor. Guests enjoyed Independence Day favorites ranging from funnel cakes and snow cones to hamburgers and hot dogs.

Marine Corps Police Department officials say it's a safe alternative for families to celebrate the holiday. MCPD had several officers on hand to ensure the safety and well-being of all guests.

"Overall the event was very successful, I believe as an institution the Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany as a team, did a phenomenal job to celebrate a significant holiday in our history and provide a controlled safe environment for the base and local community collectively to enjoy," Sean Lamonzs, Deputy Police Chief, MCPD, explained.

Lamonzs stressed the importance of parental awareness of the children especially before the firework display when it was dark outside. But like many large-scale events, there were a handful of kids that got lost from their parents. All children were accounted for and reunited with their parents/guardians.

Marketing and Sponsorship Director, Kelley Hall says the event couldn't have gone off without hitch if it wasn't for several military personnel who assisted with the event.

"Much appreciation for all of the military working parties who sacrificed their day to ensure all attendees enjoyed the annual Independence Day festivities on the base," Hall concluded.