Preparations for the annual Warner Robins Independence concert started early on Tuesday.
Knowing that they were getting a free shot at front row to a Hunter Hayes concert, several people started to show up to the Mac in Warner Robins as early as 3 p.m.
While everyone could not contain their excitement about the concert and fireworks, they also expressed their gratitude for the people who serve our country so America can celebrate its freedom and independence year after year.
Harry Strickland had a message for his little brother who's fighting for our country overseas.
"You're fighting for me, your big brother, and [to] all the other troops and all the veterans, even my father and my uncles were all veterans, I say thank you," he said.
Danielle Hood flew in from Cincinatti, Ohio to see Hunter Hayes and to celebrate her independence.
"I just want to thank all of our soldiers out there, men and women and give a shout out to my friend Leah at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Dayton Ohio," she said. "Just thank you for your service."
Dee was so excited to celebrate her independence that she waited outside of the stadium with a sign that she made to celebrate the United States Air Force Reserve's 70th Anniversary.
"My thanks go out to everyone, present [and] future, who served," she said.
From people with family history in the armed forces to those who are simply grateful to be in a free country, the crowd showed gratitude as they waited to celebrate their independence with the community.