Defending freedom is the American way

As the United States gets ready to celebrate its 243rd birthday, I’m reminded of moments in American history that distinguish our nation as the land of the free and home of the brave. These moments have shown how America’s quest for independence paved the way for freedom from tyranny at home and abroad.
It was this yearning for freedom in a free society that led to the creation of these United States of America, and the commitment to liberty that has sustained us as a nation. For more than two centuries, people around the world have looked to America as the shining city on the hill. As we celebrate Independence Day, let’s think about the men and women who risked everything. And in so doing, they founded our republic and secured the blessings of freedom and liberty for generations of Americans yet to come.
In what can be described as a David and Goliath moment leading up to the American Revolutionary War, the founders of our country took on one of the most powerful nations in the world. Courageous patriots banded together to face tyranny head on, and ensure that the unalienable rights of all men were protected. Their sacrifice set the stage for one of history’s most profound charters of human freedom ever written.
On July 4, 1776, the Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence, forging the United States of America as a beacon of hope for liberty and standard-bearer for freedom.
In one of our nation’s darkest hours during the American Civil War, President Abraham Lincoln referred to freedom’s cause and our country “as the last best hope of Earth.”
After Japan bombed Pearl Harbor in 1941, the United States once again answered the call for freedom and joined the Allied Forces to defeat evil and liberate millions of people victimized at the hands of an oppressive regime.
To this day, our men and women in the U.S. military follow in the footsteps of the founders and those in the Greatest Generation who fought in WWII. They sacrifice to ensure our freedom endures. Those who serve in our military are the front line of defense to protect American sovereignty, defeat tyranny and terrorism, and uphold the freedoms that define the American spirit and our way of life.
The federal government has a duty to ensure that our service members have what they need and deserve to do their job. That includes passing thoughtful, effective legislation. Last year, Congress passed and President Trump signed into law the VA Mission Act. The law expands health care options for veterans, helping them to receive the health care they need when they need it. Providing for our service members and veterans also includes making sure that tax dollars allocated to fund military readiness, national defense, and the salaries and benefits of the nation’s armed services actually go where they’re supposed to. That’s why I’ve worked for nearly 40 years to root out waste, fraud and abuse at the Department of Defense. Those who serve should not be shortchanged to line the pockets of contractors and others who seek to take advantage of the system.
Independence Day gives Americans so many reasons to celebrate. As you gather with friends, family members and neighbors on this Fourth of July, take a moment to reflect on our nation’s founding charter that started it all. And join me to pay tribute to the fallen heroes in our nation’s 243-year history who have made the ultimate sacrifice so future generations may enjoy “Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.”