July 10, 2012

Each year Independence Day is marked with fireworks, BBQ and family gatherings. Too often we forget about the significance of the day and the brave Americans who put their lives on the line to establish our nation. 56 men signed the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. The most famous, and largest signature belongs to John Hancock who served as President of the Continental Congress. The youngest signer was Edward Rutlege at the age of just 26. Benjamin Franklin, the oldest signer, was 70 years old. Future presidents John Adams and Thomas Jefferson also signed the Declaration. [VIDEO COURTESY OF KAIT8 NEWS IN JONESBORO] These 56 men put themselves and their families in danger by declaring their independence from Great Britain some 236 years ago. Since their time, many more patriots have come forward to defend our democracy. As a former member of the United States Army, I recognize the sacrifice our men and women in uniform make each day. Still other Americans have served our nation at home as teachers, police and fire fighters, church and community volunteers. Our nation's greatest strength has always been the character of our citizens.