[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 151 (2005), Part 11]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 15358]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                       RECOGNIZING FOURTH OF JULY

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                          HON. HILDA L. SOLIS

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 30, 2005

  Ms. SOLIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the anniversary 
of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. On July 4, 1776, we 
won independence and democracy was born. We created a great Nation and 
established a hopeful vision of liberty and equality that endures 
today.
  Independence Day is a joyous occasion for Americans as we take pride 
in our Nation's diversity and accomplishments. The United States is 
truly a diverse Nation made up of dynamic people. Every day thousands 
of people from all cultures come to this country seeking the promise of 
freedom, opportunity, and the American dream.
  As we celebrate the Fourth of July let us express our gratitude to 
the brave servicemen and women serving in Iraq and around the world. 
They should be commended for answering our Nation's call to duty. Their 
service exemplifies all that is great about our Nation: courage, honor, 
sacrifice, dedication, and distinction. They are preserving the 
democratic principles we treasure so dearly. Americans would not enjoy 
the many freedoms we have today had it not been for the honorable 
service of our U.S. veterans. We owe our troops a secure return home to 
a grateful Nation and a secure future.
  Since the events of Sept. 11, 2001, the Federal Government, along 
with State and local officials, has taken numerous steps to ensure 
greater security for our Nation. It is crucial that we address any 
security concerns that may leave our country vulnerable to another 
terrorist attack. But while defending our country, we must not 
sacrifice the civil liberties that make our land unique. We must ensure 
greater security for our people and also be vigilant about our 
individual freedoms. We must strike the right balance in meeting this 
challenge.
  On this Fourth of July, let us work together to create an America 
that remains the world's strongest force for peace, justice, and 
freedom.

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