July 4th is a special day to me. In the words of Thomas Jefferson, second Governor of the Commonwealth of Virginia and third President of the United States, "for ourselves, let the annual return of this day forever refresh our recollections of these rights [of man], and an undiminished devotion to them." Having worn a military uniform for 30 years, I take special pride in the men and women who today serve on the front lines of freedom in remote outposts at home and abroad. It is truly a privilege to live, work, and serve in this great county of Prince William!

I will always think of my Father. He was a man tempered by war, and though it would have been easy to have become hardened or cynical, neither was the case. He remained proud of the Marine Corps and his service during WWII and proud of his family and his community. He once told me that after he was sent home, soon after the Battle of Peleilu, all he wanted to do was get home and be worthy of the chances he'd been given. He did that and more. The 4th has always been my favorite holiday, and now I will remember him on this day as well. Thanks to my Dad and all of the other Dads and Moms who made the 4th possible for me.

July 4th reminds us every year, that we must remember the sacrifices of those who gave us our Republic, and also those who continue to sacrifice, to maintain the Great Experiment known as the United States of America.