LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Independence Day is right around the corner, with celebrations of all kinds taking place across the country—the most popular being those fireworks lighting up the sky.
But it’s important to remember that not everyone can enjoy those holiday displays.
Bob Carrol joined the Marines when he was 18.
“I went down to join the Navy. He was at lunch, so the Marine recruiter talked to me… and talked me into joining,” Carrol recalled.
Years later, he retired with a Purple Heart. And post-traumatic stress disorder.
After serving his country, he wants to spend Independence Day celebrating. However, fireworks can make gatherings difficult.
“Noise, it scares me sometimes,” Carrol said. “They got these loud ones, you know.”
Carrol is one of thousands of combat veterans who could be triggered from the loud bang of a firework. A trigger can be anything that cues up thoughts, feelings and memories of traumatic events.
All symptoms of PTSD.
When they feel those triggers come on, they might experience flashbacks, nightmares or feel grief and anger—flashbacks that some military members remember from their time in combat when they see and hear those fireworks exploding in the night sky.
In recent years, we’ve seen more places ditch those loud displays for some high-tech alternatives.
Similar to what Kentuckians saw at Thunder Over Louisville in April, some places like Kings Island have switched to drones in place of the typical fireworks show.
The colorful display allows for celebration without the loud and unexpected pops—an addition that many say they’re grateful for.
“Oh yeah, they’re pretty to watch, but when you get them loud ones… not in it for me,” said Carrol.
That way, everyone can enjoy Independence Day.
And there are other alternatives to fireworks for those that can’t make it to a drone show. Party favors like silly string or glow sticks can be a safe and quiet way to enjoy the holiday.
Fog machines and bubbles are also fun ways to celebrate—and have the added benefit of minimal clean up.