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PictureBaltimore Battalion CSM Charles Orange shakes the president's hand.
Soldiers Celebrate Independence Day in Style

By Mark Rickert, USAREC, Baltimore Battalion
July 11, 2014


On July 4th, Soldiers with the Baltimore Battalion joined hundreds of military service members on the South Lawn of the White House to celebrate Independence Day in style.

Treated to hamburgers, hotdogs, and the best view in town for Washington D.C.’s nationally-revered fireworks celebration, the service members also received a major pat on the back from President Barack Obama, who took a moment to highlight the importance of the military's unending service to this nation, during the White House's annual Salute to the Troops celebration.

"Because of you we’re safe, we’re free. We depend on you for our way of life. The sacrifices you make are extraordinary,” said Obama.

“It was a high honor to be invited and interact in any way with the president,” said Staff Sgt. Roger Burkowski, Baltimore Battalion. “Even if it was just a passing handshake, I was there, I saw the president, and it was good. I can finally say I met my boss.”

Sixteen Army recruiters were invited to attend the event.