Next Tuesday, July the Fourth, will mark the 241st anniversary of the adoption of the Declaration of Independence and America’s separation from the British Empire. This momentous point in American history is a mile marker to be treasured and celebrated. On that day 241 years ago, it was declared that the thirteen American colonies regarded themselves as a new nation: the United States of America.

On this and every Independence Day, I celebrate and appreciate being able to call America “home”. I feel enormously blessed to have been born and raised in what I believe to be the greatest country in the world. For me, the Fourth of July is a special day, filled with remembrance, gratitude, and patriotism. It is a day to remember and honor our forefathers who envisioned a free America as well as those who have bravely fought to preserve it.

While these are clearly dividing and difficult times, I believe we can come together, regardless of political affiliation, to celebrate the common ground amongst us all: American pride and freedom. I would like to especially thank the selfless servicemen and servicewomen who courageously make sacrifices to ensure we are able to continue to enjoy our freedoms.