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Fourth of July Memories

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I hope everyone had a great holiday last weekend.  Ilana and I were busy traveling to events around the state and spending time with our families.  We also had a chance to see a great firework show. 

As I was traveling around the state, I was struck by the number of American flags I saw hanging from front porches or being waved at parades and rallies.  It was moving to see how many Ohioans take a deep pride in their country.

I wanted to share a few of the Fourth of July memories that were sent in after I posted my last blog.

Jeanne Travaglianti:

In the early 80's we spent the 4th of July Holiday in Niagara Falls, Canada with some friends. All of the marquees on the Canadian side said "Happy Birthday America", and I'll never forget what the border looked like that night with all the firecrackers going off on the American side, celebrating. It was so beautiful over the falls! Independence Day is very special to me and my family. It's a celebration of the strength of our fore-fathers to stand up for their freedom and Independence. I'm so proud to be an American and remind myself not to take for granted all that was sacrificed for our freedom and liberty. God Bless America ... the land of the free and the home of the brave!

Chris Romano

July 4th, 1992. I'm a brand new 2nd Lieutenant of Marines... The holiday began simply enough, I was checking security posts on the base... As I surveyed all that we did to help provide a measure of both safety and security to the wives, mothers and children left behind by our warrior brethren, I began to understand the real definition of teamwork; playing the less glamorous, less "important" role of rear area support provided a measure of home front stability to our front line partners that allowed them to contribute their all to the very important job they did without the ever-present worry about who was watching out for "mom and them." We were! And I was proud to play that role for them because they were my brothers-in-arms. I am so unbelievably proud to have played a tiny role in preserving our heritage and our freedom. God bless America's warriors! The world needs us!

Dan Maynard

Most memorable 4th would be the one I spent on Parris Island watching the faint light of the fireworks from the windows of the barracks on the rifle range, thinking of being away from my family.

Thanks to everyone who sent in July Fourth memories, and thanks for your continued support!