U.S. troops on foreign territory celebrate their country's independence day.
These soldiers in Afghanistan marked the 4th of July with an army band and a huge cake made in the colours of the American flag.
The U.S. commander of NATO forces in Afghanistan said his country was a symbol of freedom.
(SOUNDBITE) (English) U.S. COMMANDER OF NATO FORCES IN AFGHANISTAN, GENERAL JOHN ALLEN:
"We are here today to celebrate the triumph of an idea that freedom will prevail in the face of adversity. We celebrate the birth of a nation, a democracy that has served as the symbol of freedom and an inspiration for those seeking to overcome oppression."
U.S. troops living in Australia marked the occasion with a barbecue serving burgers and hotdogs, as well as a game of soft ball.
The soldiers are stations in the Northern Territory as part of a recent agreement with the Australian government to position 2,500 marines at a base in Darwin.
Independence Day commemorates the signing of the U.S declaration of Independence in 1775 which proclaimed the 13 American colonies free and independent states.
