Orlando Torres | Fort Worth Report

Like many civilians, Joaquin Castillo never saw the Sept. 11 attacks coming. That day sparked a life-changing decision: He joined the U.S. Army, a choice that set him on a path from combat to advocacy. They were all steps that led to his current role as Fort Worth’s first veteran affairs officer.

Working from his fourth-floor apartment at The Cooper on West Rosedale Street, Harris barely registered the fire alarm when it began blaring about 1:30 p.m.

As Fourth of July festivities near, Fort Worth police are sounding the alarm on illegal fireworks and celebratory gunfire, warning residents that violations could result in steep fines or jail time.