    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2005, Book II)]
    [July 1, 2005]
    [Page 1170]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Message on the Observance of Independence Day, 2005
    July 1, 2005

        Since July 4, 1776, Americans have experienced freedom's power to
    overcome tyranny, inspire hope in times of trial, and turn the creative
    gifts of men and women to the pursuits of peace. Across generations, our
    Nation has defended and advanced liberty.
        The words of our Founding Fathers first guided a country of 4
    million souls, yet they put large events in motion. When the Liberty
    Bell sounded at the first public reading of the Declaration of
    Independence, one who witnessed the birth of freedom in our country
    said, ``It rang as if it meant something.'' In our time it means
    something still. America continues to proclaim liberty throughout the
    world, and we remain a country full of hope and promise where
    opportunity thrives, where all stand equal before the law, and where our
    freedoms are celebrated.
        Americans live in freedom because of the enduring power of our
    ideals. In the midst of World War II, President Franklin Delano
    Roosevelt reminded our troops that our Nation believes in the ``right to
    liberty under God--for all peoples and races and groups and nations,
    everywhere in the world.'' Today, a new generation of Americans
    continues to defend our Nation and spread freedom. On this Fourth of
    July, we honor the brave men and women of our military, and their
    families, and we express our gratitude for their courage, dedication to
    duty, and love of country.
        Laura and I send our best wishes to all
    Americans on Independence Day. May God bless you, and may God continue
    to bless America.

                                                              George W. Bush

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