Washington, D.C. - Independence Day is a special day for Americans. Two hundred thirty years ago on this day, the Continental Congress signed the Declaration of Independence in the name of democracy. America has since become the home of freedom and opportunity for hundreds of millions of people.

On this day, people of all races and creeds join together to celebrate the values and freedoms we share as Americans. Our Declaration of Independence recognizes that all Americans are equal under the law and our Constitution ensures the freedoms that allow all of us to succeed and prosper.

With freedom comes our duty to serve each other and our country so future generations can have a better life. Today we must take a moment to recognize the men and women, past and present, who have fought with great courage to defend our nation and bring peace and prosperity not only to our homeland, but around the world. We should also take a special moment to remember the men and women who have paid the ultimate price and those they have left behind in their service to our country.

God bless you all and God bless America.