Honoring, celebrating those ensuring freedom

For 228 years, Americans have celebrated the signing of our Declaration of Independence. This document, signed by our great country’s forefathers, conceived a new nation and put into writing the democratic freedoms and inalienable rights we so cherish today: Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness.
From the Revolutionary War to Operations Iraqi and Enduring Freedom, Americans have sacrificed their sons and daughters for our coveted virtues of freedom, democracy and equality.
These young men and women brought their courage to the fight, and paid the ultimate price for the liberties we enjoy today.
As we celebrate this 4th of July with traditional picnics and barbecues and holiday trips, let us remember and honor our brothers and sisters in arms who are downrange and in harm’s way ensuring our freedoms at home and around the world.
In addition, as you enjoy your fellowship with friends and family, reflect on Old Glory and everything she represents.
The true power of the Declaration of Independence comes from its capacity to inspire pride in our hearts.
Our belief in the vision it established unites us as Americans and as those in service to our nation.
Thanks for all the great work you do for U.S. Air Forces in Europe, the United States of America and the world.