I didn't get one. The lines were outrageous. By the end of the day, I wasn't feeling very friendly, so I went home without a souvenir. The 4th of July might not be a holiday outside the gates, but here on base, it's not too different than celebrating in the States. Of course, some people have to work, as is true anywhere.
Some people take off and go camping, and there are the usual picnics and parties.
It lasted about 45 minutes, and had some beautiful moments. We heard that we were lucky these past 2 years, though, that it wasn't raining on the 4th. Since Independence Day falls smack in the middle of the rainy season here, we have heard that the fireworks celebration has often been rained out in past years. Summer is a time for fireworks and Port and River Festivals, here in Japan. Iwakuni's Port Festival is in July.