What does Independence Day mean to me?

"Supporting America's deployed military service members, to ensure they are not forgotten"

What does Independence Day mean to me?

25.06.2018

Forgotten Soldiers Outreach

What does Independence Day mean to me?

As I reflect back to how I celebrated July 4th when I was growing up in the as a child in the 1960’s/1970’s, it was all about picnics with my family and enjoying the fireworks, whether it was at a park, or the beach.

I grew up knowing what Independence Day was all about, but I didn’t truly “get it” until 9/11. As the Executive Director and Founder of Forgotten Soldiers Outreach, life changed and 4th of July took on a stronger meaning to me. I appreciated our flag and the colors more than ever before, I said the pledge of allegiance with a different elation in my heart, I learned about patriotism in a new different level and I yearned to share my compassion with others. As we entered into Iraq and saw so many of our Untied States armed forces were being deployed, my heavy heart took on a new need, and Forgotten Soldiers Outreach was born.

Here we are today, and so proud to have raised my now 13 year old son to know true meaning of Independence Day! I’m not only a proud mom but proud to call myself an American. Although, I will always know that Independence Day is the day of celebration of our independence, I will also know that our Freedom is not Free!

What does Independence Day mean to you?

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