Senator Murkowski Celebrates Alaskan Patriotism on 4th of July
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Lisa Murkowski today offered the following words in celebration of Independence Day.
(Click image to watch video message)
“This 4th of July, we celebrate the 237th anniversary of our nation’s independence and honor the brave collection of thoughtful men who put their lives on the line to support a visionary idea, what many called ‘The American Experiment.’ Though we know the words by heart now, it was truly revolutionary to believe in the 18th Century 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.’ That concept was something completely unfamiliar at the time, and the fact that it has become commonplace is a global testament to the power of our principles.
“For over two centuries, America has been the ‘shining city on the hill’ that our founding fathers envisioned – a beacon of hope and prosperity for those aspiring to freedom across the globe.
“We see it in communities large and small, as we share stories, work together to solve problems to make life better and our future brighter. The 4th of July is just one opportunity we take to realize that nearly no other country in the world boasts the same freedoms and liberties we do here in the United States of America.
“But as we take a moment to appreciate all that we have, we must never forget the cost of freedom. Thousands have given their lives to secure the blessings of liberty, and their families have mourned the loss as a price to pay for this gift that we all enjoy. Freedom is indeed perishable and we’re grateful for those who safeguard our liberty for our children and grandchildren.
“As Alaskans, we share a unique brand of patriotism and independence. We treat our armed forces better than any other state, as we honor our veterans and the freedoms they defend. We speak our minds and we think big thoughts – bounded only by the limits of our imaginations. On this Independence Day, I am honored to represent Alaska in the United States of America. Thank you.”
