Kenneth Bender

On Thursday we will celebrate Independence Day, the day 56 men signed a declaration establishing America's independence from Great Britain. We salute the sacrifice and bravery of these men and celebrate the genius of our country's founders.

The Fourth of July is more than an anniversary of a document-signing. It's an opportunity to celebrate freedom and those who have and continue to fight to preserve it. Many have died for this country; we cannot repay that debt, but we should never forget that legacy.

Still today there are men and women who spend months upon months away from their families. This bravery and sacrifice -- by the servicemen and their families back home -- is admirable and greatly appreciated.

While military service is often the first thing that comes to mind on this day, we like to use the Fourth to recognize everyone who chooses to serve in other ways as well. Whether this is through military action or community involvement, the idea of helping our fellow man is something worth celebrating.

One way the newspaper recognizes this type of service is through its Spirit of America Award. Each summer we solicit nominations, asking community groups and individuals to put names forward of people whose actions have made a difference.

This year's lineup of nominees was impressive. The six men and women are all deserving, and we hope you read about each one in Tuesday's paper. The nominations also can be viewed online at semissourian.com. The nominees include: Doug Austin, Kenneth Bender, Ross E. Gartman, Mary Kasten, Lillian Martin and Marjorie Helen Miller Thompson (nominated posthumously).

Selecting a recipient of the award is never easy, but this year's winner was Kenneth Bender.

A World War II veteran, Bender flew 22 missions to Japan as part of a B-29 bomber crew. For his service to country, he received the Distinguished Flying Cross medal, a Bronze Star and two presidential citations.

Bender has been significantly involved in this community. He's a charter member of St. Andrew Lutheran Church, a member of Legion Post 63 and VFW Post 3838 and a past president of Chateau Girardeau and the Cape Girardeau Public Library. Since 1981 Bender has served as a board member for Wood and Huston Bank. He also has been involved with the Friends of the Library, Historical Association of Greater Cape Girardeau and Cape River Heritage Museum.

Nominated by the Cape Girardeau Noon Lions Club, Bender has been a member of the organization for 51 years and served as its president.

In the nomination of Bender, the Lions Club said he and his wife, Martha, represent "everything good about family and community." We agree.

For his life of service, we will recognize Bender on Thursday night at the Arena Park grandstand with the 2013 Spirit of America Award. The Cape Girardeau Noon Lions Club later will receive the $1,000 cash prize.

If you would like to join us in recognizing Mr. Bender, consider stopping by the grandstand beginning at 8:30 for music and fireworks. The award will be presented shortly after 9 p.m. before the fireworks begin.

There are several events in the area to choose from as you celebrate the Fourth. A story in today's paper highlights several. Regardless of which ones you attend, we hope you have a fun and safe holiday.

God bless America.