It was on July 4, 1776, that a group of rebels gathered at the risk of their
lives to declare this nation's independence from England.
The war had actually begun a year earlier at the battles of Lexington and
Concord.
The declaration didn't come easily. The Continental Congress was sharply divided
over whether to push for separation from its mother country.
But strong-willed, brave men such as Samuel Adams, John Adams, Ben Franklin and
John Hancock convinced the delegates to take the bold step.
Signing the Declaration of Independence was the easy part. Winning the nation's
independence was the tough part.
In the 233 years since the Declaration of Independence was signed, this nation
has served as a shining example of democracy to the rest of the world, despite
its shortcomings.
It has not been easy. Even today we continue to battle for our freedom against
various enemies.
As we celebrate this weekend, let us remember those troops who are protecting
our interests around the world and defending those rights we enjoy.