The fourth of July is a time to celebrate the origin of American Independence and come together as a nation to embrace a shared sense of jubilation.
Raising the flag on July 4th this year will be difficult in the wake of the pandemic as well as the ongoing turmoil around the world. However, it will also be an opportunity to shine the spotlight on the powerful meaning of this historic day.
On July 4, 1776, the 13 colonies claimed their independence from England, which eventually led to the formation of the United States. Each year on the fourth of July, also known as Independence Day, Americans celebrate this historic event.
As we celebrate this weekend with various festivities, it is important to also consider the impact that fireworks could have on veterans with PTSD, as fireworks and large crowds could resurface traumas of their past.
If you have a family member or friend with such a condition, it is important to consider their triggers and how you can help minimize them while also embracing this time of celebration.
There is a tribute song by Toby Keith called “American Soldier.” If you are not a country music
fan, I still encourage you to indulge in the song for a moment—it is truly worth your time. The lyrics offer several meanings for listeners, but the story about sacrifice is what truly captures the essence of what it means to be an American soldier.
Along with remembering the fallen, we pay tribute to all the families and current service members willing to sacrifice their lives for our freedoms.
Some simple ways to show you care about a service member or veteran in your family is to visit, call, or share a song with them, perhaps the “American Soldier.” After all, our
Independence is a time of celebration for the love of American freedom.
As a Germantown Academy community, I encourage that we, as a community, come together to celebrate not only the independence of our past but also the continued freedom of our future. Happy Birthday, America!