AUSTRALIA - The smell of hot dogs on the grill and sounds of a softball game are familiar reminders of Independence Day traditions. This Fourth of July, those traditions took on a new meaning for several hundred Marines, sailors, and Australian Army soldiers.

At Robertson Barracks in Australia’s Northern Territory, members of 2nd Cavalry Regiment, 1st Brigade Australian Defence Force and Marines with Company F, 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force, celebrated Independence Day together.

The Australians and Americans partnered together to prepare an American-style barbecue, complete with hot dogs, hamburgers and potato salad. They also participated in rugby and softball games. USO Pacific sponsored the barbecues by providing food and holiday decorations.

“It's great to see the Australians coming out to join us in celebrating our culture and sharing some of theirs,” said Sgt. Kyle Coe, a platoon sergeant with Company F. “The (USO) couldn't have done a better job setting up the cookout for us.”

The barbecue was not the first time Marines and Australians partnered to celebrate a national holiday. In April, Marines of Company F marched through downtown Darwin alongside Australian troops in celebration of Anzac Day, which commemorates the sacrifices of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps during World War I.

“We’ve forged a very good relationship with (the Marines) since Anzac Day when they joined in (our) celebrations,” said Sgt. Kayla Williamson, an Australian soldier with 2nd Cavalry Regiment. “It’s an honor to be able to facilitate this with them, and we hope they enjoy their day.”

Approximately 70 Australian soldiers joined in the cookout with the Marines. There were plenty of happy faces throughout the day, over the grill, at picnic tables, and on the athletic fields.

“I don't think we could get any closer to home than this,” said Lance Cpl. Anthony Vaccaro, an ammunition technician with Company F. “Both countries have truly come together during the time we've spent here. I'm looking forward to continuing to train here.”

During the remaining months of its deployment to Australia, Company F, as part of Marine Rotational Force – Darwin, will conduct bilateral martial arts training, small-unit operations and other combat training with various supporting elements, all cooperation with the Australian Army’s 1st Brigade, based at Robertson Barracks.

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