Brandom: The Fourth of July

Traditionally on the Fourth of July we celebrate the birth of our nation out of the American Revolution. Parades, fireworks, bonfires, and games all help remind us of
how this day is extraordinarily special. As the fourth nears, it is important for us set aside time to reflect on the origin of our country and the many sacrifices made to make America great.

The American Revolution began on April 19, 1775, with the battles of Lexington and Concord. It was at Lexington that the “shot heard around the world” was fired as less than 100 minutemen, under the command of Captain John Parker, defiantly challenged approximately 700 British troops.

Over a year later, on June 7, 1776, a delegate from Virginia, Richard Henry Lee, offered a resolution announcing, “These United Colonies are, and of right ought to be free and independent States.” The Continental Congress then appointed members to a committee of five so a declaration reflecting Lee’s resolution, while stating the colonists’ justification for independence, could be drafted.

On July 2, 1776, Lee’s resolution calling for independence was adopted. Over the course of the next two days, Congress modified the declaration draft that came out of the committee of five. On July 4, 1776, the Continental Congress gave approval to the final draft of the Declaration of Independence.

In a letter home to his wife, John Adams wrote that the day congress declared independence would be remembered as an important time in American history. He noted the day should be, “…celebrated by succeeding generations as the great anniversary festival,” and that, “It ought to be solemnized with pomp and parade, with shows, games, guns, bells, bonfires and illuminations from one end of this continent to
the other, from this time forward forever more.”

Just as John Adams predicted, we observe America’s independence from England each year with ample celebration and calm reflection. We remember the courage and fortitude displayed by our founders as they forged a new nation on principles and natural law, the sacrifices made by the members of our armed forces from the American Revolution to our current wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, and the God
who has mercifully blessed our nation from its inception.

The Fourth of July has always served as a special opportunity to reflect on the beginning of our nation and the many sacrifices made over the years which make
America great. I would like to thank each of you for preserving the American spirit and continuing our great tradition.

May God bless you, your family and the United States of America.