July doesn’t have a lot of days that highlight historical events, but there is one worth remembering. July 4th is Independence Day, a date established by the Continental Congress on July 4, 1776. The significance of this day has been somewhat lost in recent years as forces try to downplay what this day really means. Those of us who have served in the military know how disruptive war can be.
The Declaration of Independence was signed by 56 patriots, all of whom were men of means and they risked everything should the British have been victorious. Nine died in combat, five were captured and killed as traitors, two lost sons in the fighting and most of the rest lost all of their worldly possessions. They signed that document knowing what they risked, yet sign it they did. Out of the Declaration came our Constitution which housed the Bill of Rights that made the United States of America a special place in world history.
Efforts to water down our Bill of Rights or in some cases eliminate those rights place all of us in a difficult position. The sacrifice of those who signed the original documents was significant and each citizen of this country could very well find themselves in a difficult place should forces that are challenging our history, our constitution and our freedoms continue to erode those freedoms. When we served our country, many of us went into harm’s way. We made that journey not only out of duty, but we did it because we understood that freedom was worth the potential sacrifice.
This July 4th, remember what that day truly meant to all of those who came before us and take a moment to share those memories with our kids and families. This year our conference that will be held in July in the home of the Alamo will be a special gathering. I hope to see many of you there and I hope that we can all take some time to remember the true cost of freedom. I will, how about you?
If you have any ideas or suggestions, either contact headquarters or contact me at retiredveteran89@outlook.com and I can assure you that your leadership will take note.
Strength in Unity & Leadership By Example,
MCPO (SCW) Terry M. Haines
Chairman, International Board of Directors