Famed bounty hunter Duane "Dog" Chapman told Newsmax on Friday that this year's Fourth of July "since I've been alive, this is the greatest celebration."
Appearing on "National Report," Chapman said Americans should embrace the nation's 250th Independence Day festivities while remaining vigilant against crime and thanking the law enforcement officers and military members who protect the country.
Chapman, whose hit A&E series "Dog the Bounty Hunter" made him a household name, reflected on his decades pursuing dangerous fugitives and said the holiday is a reminder of what makes America exceptional.
"My father was in the Navy," Chapman said, recalling how he was taught to respect the American flag from an early age.
While discussing reports that some Democrats are less likely to display the flag on Independence Day, Chapman said he believes patriotism transcends politics.
"I'm not sure that it's 33% of the Democrats," he said. "I know a lot of Democrats, even though I am a Republican, that are proud to be an American."
"And that's what this is all about, is America," Chapman added. "I think since I've been alive, this is the greatest celebration ... that I've ever seen."
The comments come as communities across the country mark the nation's semiquincentennial with parades, fireworks, and patriotic events celebrating America's founding.
Chapman also urged Americans to stay alert during the holiday weekend, echoing the familiar homeland security message, "If you see something, say something."
The veteran bounty hunter said public tips remain one of the most effective crime-fighting tools. Chapman revealed he is currently tracking a wanted sexual predator in another state and said information from the public has been critical to the search.
"If you see something, say something," Chapman said. "Then you're not a snitch.
"If it wouldn't be for someone ... saying something to me, I would have never found him," he added. "Sometimes there's a reward, but after the perp goes to jail, you'll feel much better."
Chapman also paid tribute to the men and women who put themselves in harm's way to protect others.
After the hosts played remarks from a Border Patrol agent praising America's freedoms and the sacrifices required to preserve them, Chapman pointed to Scripture.
"The Bible says that blessed is the man or woman that would lay down their life for a friend," he said. "And these guys are laying down their life and they don't even know us. So they're the real American heroes."
Chapman said he planned to celebrate the holiday with his wife, Francie, by watching fireworks, saying she enjoys "the sparkle" while he prefers "the boom boom."
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