Houstonians wrap up Independence Day festivities

HOUSTON – The Fourth of July in Houston would not be a celebration without Freedom Over Texas, a traditional city party to honor the United States.

All Houstonians are invited to this party and thousands show up. The patriotic find a place in what becomes a very crowded Eleanor Tinsley Park under a hot Houston sun.

There was more to the celebration than the fireworks and food, including a heartfelt salute to the men and women who have served in the military.

On the main stage, retired Army Sgt. David Flores and his family were awarded keys to a mortgage-free home in Channelview.

Flores served in Iraq and was injured in 2005 by a roadside bomb. He now plans to pursue a medical degree. He told KPRC 2 he is incredibly thankful for the gift of a new home on the Fourth of July.

"It allows me to give back to my community, as they've done for me,"Flores said.