Hill Air Force Base will join in a national bell-ringing Friday to note independence of the colonies that ultimately became the United States. The bells will ring at noon following a program beginning at 11:30 a.m. in the base museum's World War II chapel. The Air Force Association's Northern Utah Chapter is sponsoring the event.

Sen. Orrin Hatch, R-Utah, will speak and Maj. Gen. Kathleen Close, Ogden Air Logistics Center commander, will be a special guest.

Several patriotic organizations will join the AFA observance, including both Sons and Daughters of the American Revolution. The Utah event will be one of many throughout the country, replicating the tolling of the Liberty Bell at Independence Hall in Philadelphia at 2 p.m. on July 4, 1776, to celebrate the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The national Sons of the American Revolution sponsors the countrywide observance. Visit www.let-freedom-ring.org for more information.