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Show July 4 message from President Reagan By President Ronald Reagan On the Fourth of July we celebrate the birth of our nation and those brave and patriotic Americans who signed the Declaration of Independence and pledged their lives and fortunes to the cause of freedom 207 years ago. Today the document that ignited the flames of liberty remains a symbol of our founding principles for people around the globe. As Abraham Lincoln wrote, "the Declaration of Independence ... gave liberty not alone to the people of this country, but hope to all the world, for all future time. It ... gave promise that in due time the weights would be lifted from the shoulders of all men, and that all should have an equal chance." The inspired men who signed the Declaration dreamed bold dreams about what the new nation would become, believing that a people could accomplish whatever they imagined if left to pursue their dreams without interference in-terference from an oppressive government. Our forefathers seized the opportunity oppor-tunity freedom provided and built this great land of hope and prosperity. Today To-day we honor their heroic spirit and the ideas that changed the world. As we enjoy this traditional holiday, let us reflect on our blessings and all the good things about life in these United States. Tom Paine once wrote that, "Not a place upon earth might be so happy as America." For all our fellow Americans, Nancy and I wish happiness always. |