Otaru, Japan (July 4, 2006) - Fireworks burst off the coast of Otaru, during a 4th of July celebration for the officers and Sailors of the Kitty Hawk (CV 63) Carrier Strike Group.

Otaru, Japan (July 4, 2006) - Fireworks burst off the coast of Otaru, during a 4th of July celebration for the officers and Sailors of the Kitty Hawk (CV 63) Carrier Strike Group. Visitors from the Otaru area were invited aboard to join in an Independence Day reception, which included food, drinks and music. While in port Sailors will have a chance to sightsee, shop, enjoy recreational activities and participate in community relation projects. Currently in port, Kitty Hawk demonstrates power projection and sea control as the U.S. Navy's only forward-deployed aircraft carrier. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Thomas J. Holt (RELEASED)