Let me be among the first to wish you a happy Independence Day! 

We are blessed to live in the greatest nation on earth - one where we wake up under fifty stars and thirteen red and white stripes, and we get to decide that today will be better than yesterday, and that tomorrow will be better than today.  The freedom that we have as Americans makes that possible, and it’s worth celebrating.  But while you are celebrating, take a moment to remember all those who have fought to make it possible and the sacrifices they have made.  

I hope that you are able to spend today with friends and family, enjoying the hard-won rights and liberties that have made our country the envy of the world.  

Again, happy Independence Day!