[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 39, Number 27 (Monday, July 7, 2003)]
[Pages 876-877]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Message on the Observance of Independence Day, 2003

July 3, 2003

    On July 4, 1776, our Founders adopted the Declaration of 
Independence, creating a great Nation and establishing a hopeful vision 
of liberty and equality that endures today. This Independence Day, we 
express gratitude for our many blessings and we celebrate the ideals of 
freedom and opportunity that our Nation holds dear.

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    America's strength and prosperity are testaments to the enduring 
power of our founding ideals, among them, that all men are created 
equal, and that liberty is God's gift to humanity, the birthright of 
every individual. The American creed remains powerful today because it 
represents the universal hope of all mankind.

    On the Fourth of July, we are grateful for the blessings that 
freedom represents and for the opportunities it affords. We are thankful 
for the love of our family and friends and for our rights to think, 
speak, and worship freely. We are also humbled in remembering the many 
courageous men and women who have served and sacrificed throughout our 
history to preserve, protect, and expand these liberties. In liberating 
oppressed peoples and demonstrating honor and bravery in battle, the 
members of our Armed Forces reflect the best of our Nation.

    We also recognize the challenges that America now faces. We are 
winning the war against enemies of freedom, yet more work remains. We 
will prevail in this noble mission. Liberty has the power to turn hatred 
into hope.

    America is a force for good in the world, and the compassionate 
spirit of America remains a living faith. Drawing on the courage of our 
Founding Fathers and the resolve of our citizens, we willingly embrace 
the challenges before us.

    Laura joins me in sending our best wishes for a safe and joyous 
Independence Day. May God bless you, and may God continue to bless 
America.
                                                George W. Bush

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