Independence Day

I am well aware of the toil and blood and treasure, that it will cost us to maintain this declaration, and support and defend these states. Yet through all the gloom, I can see the rays of ravishing light and glory. - John Adams, 1776

...Then, it is said, one unknown man rose to speak. He was neither young, nor strong in voice; yet he spoke with such conviction that he mesmerized the hall...his voice falling he said, 'They may turn every tree into gallows, every hole into grave, and yet the words of that parchment can never die...Sign if the next moment the noose is around your neck, for that parchment will be the textbook of freedom, the Bible of the rights of man forever.'

And sign they did."  

- Ronald Reagan, 1981

The second day of July, 1776, will be the most memorable epocha in the history of America. I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated by succeeding generations as the great anniversary festival. It ought to be commemorated as the day of deliverance, by solemn acts of devotion to God Almighty. It ought to be solemnized with pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illuminations, from one end of this continent to the other, from this time forward forevermore. 

- John Adams, 1776

I only regret that I have but one life to lose for my country. - Nathan Hale, 1776

Let every nation know, weather it wishes us well or ill, we shall pay any price, bear any burden, meet any hardship, support any friend, oppose any foe, to assure the survival and success of liberty. - John F. Kennedy

Happy 4th of July everybody! 

...I'm about to go solemnize this day with pomp and parade and illuminations, 

just as Mr. Adams instructed.