Tribute to the American Spirit

Courtesy of freedigitalphotos.net/ Chuck Felix

It began with a desire to be free. To pursue life, liberty and happiness. All over what would one day become America, men and women reached deep and made the decision to live free or die fighting for it.

They made their intentions known as they declared their independence. Thousands of men went into battle, facing the redcoats of the British army. They stood in line to be gunned down by powder and ball. And yet, something deep within them gave them the courage to face that death. The desire for freedom.

The rest, as they say, is history. America is free. The stars and stripes fly proudly over our nation as proof that Americans will live free. That commitment has been challenged throughout history. From within during the Civil War. On foreign soil with the World Wars. And most recently, in our own backyard.

Through it all, the heartbeat of American remains strong and freedom rings. America is alive and well.  Americans have overcome the most challenging obstacles and freedom still reigns.

Thank you to every soldier who kept vigil, fought valiantly and paid the ultimate price to purchase our freedom. We hold you in our hearts today as we celebrate our freedom on personal ways. We will never forget you and your sacrifice. We honor you today.

God bless America! God bless Americans. God bless the day we celebrate our declaration of independence. Enjoy your freedom!