This weekend, millions of Americans will come together in the streets, backyards, churches and meeting places of their hometowns to honor their fellow countrymen, past and present, as well as the wonderful land we all call home. Independence Day – that most American of holidays – is upon us once again.
While many will be celebrating the Fourth of July with our friends, families and neighbors by grilling hamburgers, shooting fireworks and waving the red-white-and-blue, I urge us all to think critically about the rich history behind the celebration, and the sacrifices our forefathers and service members have made to create the many freedoms we enjoy.
The first Fourth of July occurred in 1776, when the Second Continental Congress officially adopted “The Declaration of Independence,” declaring our new nation’s sovereignty from British rule. Over the following two centuries, American leaders and service members would work, fight and die to build what would become the world’s longest-standing system of governance.
This Independence Day, we honor the over 21 million living U.S. veterans, and the 1.1 million members of the military who have given their lives for our freedom since the beginning of the Revolutionary War. We also honor the hardworking legislators, community leaders and American workers who have supported the United States on its rise to greatness. The Fourth of July is a day of happiness, remembrance and intense national pride, for we truly are lucky to call ourselves American citizens. Make your country proud by celebrating safely and responsibly this weekend, and above all, have a great Fourth of July.