07/04/2019
Director’s 2019 Independence Day Message
“Defending the Freedoms We Cherish”
On July 4th, 1776, the original 56 members of the Second Continental Congress had much to lose by signing their names to the Declaration of Independence. Among them were lawyers, merchants, farmers, plantation owners – all well-educated and established citizens of the colonies. They knew full well that by affixing their signatures, they were risking death if captured. And yet, they mutually pledged their lives, their fortunes and their sacred honor – and they all signed.
Maintaining the ideals of the Declaration has never been easy. Throughout our Nation's history, Americans have again and again been called upon to defend the freedoms we cherish. America's Armed Forces have always stood ready to meet that challenge both at home and abroad. Today, as in the past, our Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, and Marines are keeping alive the spirit of Independence Day.
We’re a nation founded upon the ideal “…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.” This ideal is one of the true hallmarks of what it means to be an American.
On this, the 243rd birthday of our great Nation, let us not forget that the freedoms we enjoy as Americans endure only through the service and sacrifice of those willing to defend it. In that regard, please remember our military men and women and civilians in harm’s way and thank you, the DLA workforce, for the part you play in America’s defense. As your Director, I am so proud of the indispensable work you do each and every day in support of our Warfighters and our Nation.
From Myra and I and our whole family, have a safe and wonderful July 4th holiday.
Warfighter First!
