For me, the Fourth of July weekend always feels like the real start to summer — a time to get together with family, friends and neighbors to share a home-cooked meal, go to a parade on Main Street and watch the fireworks.
Growing up, the Fourth of July meant family getting together at my Aunt Betty’s house in Maxton or my Aunt Phiena’s house in Lumberton. My cousins and I would always play in the yard before it was time to gather around the dinner table. I remember my Grandfather praying before we enjoyed a potluck meal. It’s a special memory for me because it reminds me what makes this country so great.
As your representative in Congress, I am reminded of the significance of this holiday. The impact of our Founding Fathers declaring independence from England on that Fourth of July 240 years ago still resonates with me and invigorates me to fight for our rights and our freedom. Our Founding Fathers declared independence for their families, friends and neighbors because they recognized that every man, woman and child must be free — and under the English monarchy, we would never truly be free.
We face a lot of challenges today from terrorists looking to destroy our freedom, but I believe we have the conviction and tools necessary to overcome these tests. Our military is still the best and most powerful force on Earth. The skills and dedication of our soldiers, sailors, marines, coasties and airmen leave no doubt in my mind we can destroy and degrade ISIS — or any other threat we may face now or in the future.
We are fortunate that our nation is home to so many patriots who dedicate their lives to defending our freedom, securing our homeland and protecting our democracy. Fourth of July marks a time for us to say thank you to these heroes. I hope you set aside a special moment to pay tribute to and say a prayer for the heroic men and women who continue to make our Fourth of July celebrations possible.
In addition to fighting for our independence, our Founding Fathers gave the American people the greatest system of government on Earth. This government was set up by the people for the people. While some politicians in Washington believe the beltway knows better, I know the best ideas come from you, my constituents.
As we gather with our friends, families and neighbors to celebrate our Independence Day, it’s important we remember why our country is so great. I’m so proud to be an American, to call you all neighbors and to have the opportunity to celebrate our freedoms every Fourth of July. It is an honor to serve as your Congressman and defend those freedoms on your behalf.
U.S. Rep. Richard Hudson, R-Concord, represents North Carolina’s 8th Congressional District, which currently includes Anson County.