| About Elizabeth |
| North Carolina |
| Constituent Services |
| Issues Legislation |
| Press Office |
| Upcoming Events |
| Dole Campus |
| Contact Information |
Washington DC Office
555 Dirksen Office Building
Washington, DC 20510
Ph: 202.224.6342
Fax: 202.224.1100
North Carolina Offices
Raleigh Office:
310 New Bern Avenue
Suite 122
Raleigh, NC 27601
Ph: 919.856.4630
Fax: 919.856.4053
Salisbury Office:
225 North Main Street
Suite 304
Salisbury, NC 28144
Ph: 704.633.5011
Fax: 704.633.2937
Western Office:
401 North Main Street
Suite 200
Hendersonville, NC 28792
Ph: 828.698.3747
Fax: 828.698.1267
Eastern Office:
306 South Evans Street
Greenville, NC 27835
Ph: 252.329.1093
Fax: 252.329.1097
|
|
Press Office - Articles
INDEPENDENCE DAY
Author: Senator Elizabeth Dole
Publication: Dunn Daily Record |
| |
July 4th, 2005 - On this day, when we celebrate the signing of the Declaration of Independence, we are reminded of our country’s history. The document opened the door to a new country, free for the first time from an oppressive government. The first patriots, armed with their morals and ideas, planned a great nation unlike any that had ever existed. They had the work ethic, big dreams and ideals that we now call the American spirit--these are the characteristics that define our country.
And now, over two centuries later, we continue efforts to instill that uniquely American spirit in future generations of American citizens. Ideas passed on from generation to generation keep us united as folks who share a common American bond. On this Independence Day, we can all look to our past with gratitude for the blessings we have received as a Nation, and we can look forward with hope and optimism towards an even brighter future.
Right now, our brave servicemen and women, like the veterans before them, are answering the call to protect our country. We have the best equipped, most capable, most courageous military force in the world. They are fighting a daily battle in a war we all know requires steadfast commitment, both in the theater of battle and here at home. We must continue to support those who are fighting for our freedoms now. It is through the dedication of members of our Armed Services that the dream of an American nation came into fruition and has endured for so long.
Last week, during his visit to North Carolina, the president encouraged all Americans to support and thank our men and women in uniform during this holiday weekend. The Fourth of July is indeed the perfect time to celebrate and acknowledge those who have worked so hard to defend our freedom. The U.S. Department of Defense has launched a web site called America Supports You at www.AmericaSupportsYou.mil. I hope many of you will take time to express your gratitude to a military man or woman for their service.
In all parts of the world, people hope for the opportunity of liberty that is enjoyed by Americans. Our forefathers achieved the same touchstones for freedom we hear about now in Iraq—the progress toward a new constitution that protects individual rights, free democratic elections, and hope for success in the future. Our soldiers, so many from bases right here in North Carolina, are forging a process of peace, and in doing so, the Iraqi people are moving toward complete control of their government and society. As Americans, we can understand how incredibly important this goal is to every person.
I will always support upholding the freedoms that define us as Americans, as well as the symbols of these freedoms. That is why I have cosponsored legislation U.S. Senate to establish a constitutional amendment banning desecration of our flag. There is no greater emblem of our unity, freedom, and liberty than the American flag. The flag is a living symbol of the sacrifice of those who answered the call of duty and fought for their country. Wherever she waves, the flag reminds us that freedom is our American right and our American responsibility.
I hope all North Carolinians will celebrate the many blessings we have as Americans during this holiday weekend. God bless you all, and God bless America!
|
| |
| ### |
| |
|
|
|
|