NAVAL STATION ROTA, Spain (July 2, 2015) – Capt. Greg Pekari, commander, U.S. Naval Activities Spain, speaks of the importance of Independence Day to service members, civilians, and guests during the annual flag-raising ceremony, July 2. While raising the flag is a daily occurrence on most U.S. military installations around the world, Naval Station Rota is only permitted to fly the American flag with special permission from the base’s Spanish admiral in chief in accordance with the Agreement on Defense Cooperation. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Grant Wamack/Released)