The 4th of July

Tomorrow we celebrate the 4th of July, but how many people really know or understand exactly why we do? Is it just about the parades, fireworks, and barbecues?

On July 4, 1776, the thirteen colonies claimed their Independence from England, an event which eventually led to the formation of the United States. Each year on the 4th of July, which is also known as Independence Day, Americans celebrate this historic event. The Continental Congress actually began meeting in early June of 1776 to begin discussing the possiblity of breaking away from the British Crown. It took them until the 4th to actually pass the resolution. Interestingly enough, of the 13 colonies, nine voted in favor of the Declaration, two - Pennsylvania and South Carolina - voted No, Delaware was undecided and New York abstained from the vote.

One of the most famous lines from the Declaration of Independence states that, "We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness." I hope we all take a moment tomorrow to reflect on how grateful we are for the rights and freedoms provided to all of us in this great country.

With that said, here are some of my favorite 4th of July memories of all time:

1. Going to visit Aunt Julie and Uncle Lorin in Rexburg, Idaho.
2. Watching the Rexburg parade.
3. Playing golf at Teton Lakes Golf Course after the parade.
4. Dropping M-80's into the irrigation canal across the street from Aunt Julie and Uncle Lorin's.
5. Making tin can rockets.
6. Going to watch the West Jordan parade.
7. Watching the West Jordan fireworks from Westvale Elementary school.
8. Watching Mia play with sparklers for the first time.
9. Watching or getting ready to watch the start of the Tour de France.
10. Spending time with family.

The 4th of July has taken on an even greater significance for me over the past six years, beginning with the birth of my daughter, Mia. I am so glad that I am able to raise my family in such a wonderful place full of opportunity. She will be able to be and do whatever her heart leads her to.

The second major event was when I enlisted and was later commissioned in the Navy Reserve. I am so proud to wear the uniform of our great nation. I can hardly describe the feeling that overcomes me everytime I stop and realize that as a citizen soldier I am doing my part to defend the principles and freedoms that make this country great. I am proud to be an American!