Retired U.S. Army First Sergeant Brian Fuller spent 24 years serving his country in the United States military and explained that there are times when fireworks go off, they sound just like a mortar round or gunfire.

Fuller is now able to talk about dealing with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and credits support systems around him that have helped him.

He hopes everyone is able to enjoy the holiday and reminded the public if they are setting off fireworks to just make sure they are situationally aware.

If you are a local veteran and feel as though you may be suffering from PTSD, contact information to help can be found here:

Erie: https://www.va.gov/erie-health-care/

Erie County: https://eriecountypa.gov/departments/veterans-affairs/