Residents throughout the country will be celebrating the birth of our nation today with barbecues, picnics and fireworks. But for a select group of people, this day is even more special.

They are celebrating their own birthdays, as well as that of the United States.

There are advantages to being born on a holiday such as this one: Most people have the day off, there is usually a party going on that day and fireworks shows are included.

Also, since it’s not a gift-giving holiday, those born on July 4th don’t have to worry about getting one present for two occasions. Most say they have a feel a special connection with the U.S. because of their birthday.

Nearly 1 million Americans were born on Independence Day, including a few South Mississippi residents. They shared their thoughts about being born on the same day as the U.S.

John Hill

John Hill was born in Chula in 1929, but moved to Gulfport soon after and has lived on the Coast for nearly all of his 80 years.

When he was a child, the American Legion held a special celebration for people born on July 4th, and Hill’s mother always took him.

“When you were old enough to know, it always made you proud to be an American,” he said. “It was a special day.”

This year, Hill and his wife, Sandy, are having a party at their Biloxi home to mark his 80th birthday. They also are celebrating the late Ken Combs’ birthday. Combs, former Gulfport mayor, would have been 80 in April.

Louie Langlinais

Louie Langlinais said he feels a special connection to this country because of his birthday. Born in 1945, he said he has always felt patriotic, in part because of the day he was born.

“I am a flag waver, and I believe in America,” he said. “You develop a lot of patriotism being born on July 4th. It’s wonderful being an American.”

In years past, Langlinais said his birthday lasted longer than just one day.

“It was great,” he recalled, laughing. “I would start celebrating on July 2nd and go all the way to July 5th.”

Sharon Howard

Sharon Howard said being born on a holiday always has made her birthday more special. She remembers going on picnics and swimming for her birthday, as well as being surrounded by friends and family.

“It’s not a personal day,” she said. “It’s just a big holiday. All of the fanfare that you wouldn’t get on a regular birthday, you get on July 4th.”

Howard believes she knows why she loves the July 4th traditions.