TROUTMAN, N.C. -- The Fourth of July is nearly here, but one local community couldn’t wait any longer. That’s why the fourth annual Iredell County Independence Day Celebration Parade kicked off on Saturday with all the making of a traditional community event.

More than 150 Vietnam era veterans were on hand Saturday to be officially honored by those on hand. “I support the veterans and I’m glad to see this happen,” said attendee Phyllis Bailey.

“I have a cousin in the Marines and I just think it’s awesome for anybody who wants to serve our country,” added attendee Sydney Andrews.

Following the parade, the veterans were honored with a special song, a prayer and a flag. “I really enjoyed the salute mostly to the Vietnam vets,” said PFC Richmond Barkemeyer of the Army Reserve. “It's really important to get the last generation of soldiers out with the new generation here."

Veterans from the Iraq War were also on hand to pay their respects. “It doesn’t matter when you serve or where you served,” said Barkemeyer. “This uniform, it’s an instant bond.”

And as the nation prepares to celebrate the Fourth of July a little bit later than the town of Troutman, the veterans on hand have a message.

“Have fun, but remember the freedoms you got came from the men serving in the military and giving their lives,” said Raymond Moore, a Marine from 1958-1968.

Added Iraq veteran Christopher Black, “Just remember that freedom isn’t free. There’s a price to be paid for the liberties that we have in this country and that everyone makes a sacrifice whether they know it or not.”

The parade began as a project of the Marine Corps League and veterans groups to recognize the Fourth of July and honor veterans.