An MQ-9 Reaper sits on the flight line at Hurlburt Field, Fla., May 3, 2014.The MQ-9 Reaper is an armed, multi-mission, medium-altitude, long-endurance remotely piloted aircraft that is employed primarily as an intelligence-collection asset and secondarily against dynamic execution targets. (U.S. Air Force photo illustration/Staff Sgt. John Bainter)

Commentaries

Reflect on sacrifices of Independence Day

  • Published
  • By Col. James Brock
  • 919th Maintenance Group commander
DUKE FIELD, Fla. --  Independence Day, better known as the Fourth of July, is a time for fireworks and barbecues. It is a time to spend with family and friends, but it is also a time of remembrance. 

The 4th of July marks the day the Declaration of Independence was signed, our formal declaration of independence from Great Britain. Men from our country took a stand and fought for freedom. 

Many lives were sacrificed for this freedom then, and still today many men and women give their lives protecting the freedom that was earned on July 4, 1776. This marked the creation of the American Dream, living in "the land of the free and home of the brave". 

This holiday commemorates the courage and faith of our founding fathers had in their pursuit of liberty. This day in history united our nation and the United States of America was born. 

Being a member in the United States Air Force Reserve I have pride in the costs that men and women have paid for our country. I take time everyday to remember their sacrifices, but I especially remember the lives that were lost fighting for our freedom on July 4th every year. 

For most Americans the fourth of July is spent barbecuing and watching baseball. We go to parades dressed in red, white and blue and watch fireworks once is it dark. We use our holiday to relax, but some forget that there is more meaning to this holiday. 

This year on the 4th of July we need to take a moment away from the fun and remember the patriots who have paid the ultimate sacrifice. The celebration or our freedom is important and the day should be a day of celebration, but always remember the men and women who have died defending and protecting our right to celebrate our freedom. 

Freedom isn't free. Many have given their lives and we must always remember the ones of us who paid that sacrifice. There are many men and women who have fought for our freedom and have come home. These men and women are just as important as those who have died fighting for our freedom. 

They show bravery and commitment to our country everyday when they put on their uniform regardless of service. They take pride in their country and work hard to defend the freedoms we enjoy. 

I too am proud to defend our country and its freedoms, and I will continue to stand by my fellow Airman and any other member of our armed forces and fight for these freedoms. 

This year while you are barbecuing and watching the game and fireworks take a minute from the celebrations, remember all the men and women of our armed forces and the members who have paid the ultimate sacrifice for your freedom. 

Thank a military member in uniform for their service as well as a veteran when you get a chance. I am always proud to serve the United States of America!