Independence Day

While most Americans enjoy a day of fireworks, picnics and relaxation on Tuesday, thousands of others will be vigilantly pursuing the goal of restoring stability to war-torn areas of the world.

The freedom most of us will enjoy is a bequest from all those who have valiantly answered our nation's call to duty in times of strife. To them we owe our special thanks, especially on a day like the Fourth of July.

Enjoy the holiday that celebrates our nation's birth, but also take time to reflect on the price that has been paid for our freedom.

We are forever indebted to those in uniform, as well as to all those who possess the American spirit and yearn for a better life and the opportunity to seek it.

That is the mark of a free nation: the ability of its people to make better lives for themselves and their fellow Americans.