However, earlier this month, the chairman for the Board of Supervisors, Cedell Brooks, Jr., notified Capt. Judy Smith, commanding officer for Naval Support Activity South Potomac, that the county would not be able to fund this year’s July 4th fireworks.

Naval Support Facility (NSF) Dahlgren’s Fourth of July Committee had already begun preparations for this year’s event when the county’s decision not to fund a fireworks display was communicated. Unfortunately, Navy funds budgeted for this year’s celebration cannot be used for purchasing fireworks.

Considering that a Dahlgren holiday event would not include the traditional Fourth of July fireworks, Capt. Smith determined it was appropriate to cancel the base’s event with the expectation that many local citizens would elect to travel to other nearby locales, such as Colonial Beach or Fredericksburg that will be sponsoring fireworks displays.

In a letter addressed to local newspapers reporting on the cancellation, Capt. Smith emphasized, ‘‘I want to express my great appreciation to past and present King George County Supervisors for their longstanding support of this rich tradition that has long been enjoyed by base employees, area residents and their families.

‘‘While many communities host Fourth of July events, few allow residents the opportunity to rub elbows with our service members and to thank them for their service to our country,” she said.

Capt. Smith concluded, ‘‘NSF Dahlgren has always enjoyed hosting the Fourth of July celebration in cooperation with King George County. And we look forward to any opportunity to continue to partner with the county for future events.

‘‘In the meantime, as you commemorate this year’s Independence Day holiday,” she added, ‘‘I encourage you to think of the Sailors, Marines, soldiers and airmen that live in your community or find themselves in harm’s way on the nation’s birthday. Remember them as you celebrate a freedom that they are guarding with their lives – for us.”