Independence Day

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Monday is Independence Day, commemorating the anniversary of the birth of a new nation on July 4, 1776.

That nation brought a new meaning of liberty with freedom under law to all men. It has always been a memorable occasion. For the following 100 years after that historical event, the date was celebrated with the ringing of bells.

Benjamin Franklin said, “It ought to be solemnized with pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illumination from one end of this continent to the other from this time forward forevermore.”

Americans have taken Franklin to heart over the ensuing years adding family get-togethers, fireworks, concerts and more to the mix. It’s a great day for a celebration.

Since the tolling of the Liberty Bell at Independence Hall in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, at 2 p.m. July 4, 1776, proclaimed the signing of the Declaration of Independence, the adoption of this historic document marked the birth of our country as a free and independent nation.

Monday also is a time to fly the flag of the United States of America. It stands for all that our country has meant to anyone and to everyone its natural resources, its cities, its industries, its intellectual and skillful accomplishments, its brave men and women who have defended our nation in all the wars down through the years …

That flag and Independence Day are symbols of all those who fought to keep America free, to preserve the great heritage left for us by the founding fathers of this One Nation Under God.

While we are enjoying the Fourth of July holiday Monday, let us not fail to keep in mind the great importance of the occurrence that holiday commemorates.

(This editorial first appeared in the July 3, 1972, edition of The Seymour Tribune.)

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