July 4 declarations

As Americans observe the 233rd anniversary of our separation from our colonial rulers in England, it’s a good time to pause and reflect on what exactly we commemorate each Fourth of July.

Our backyard barbecues and fireworks are just a few trappings that pale in significance with the feat that we should actually be celebrating: The profound foresight and brilliance of the group of men who gathered on that hot July day in Philadelphia in 1776 and laid the foundation of our nation.

The News Bulletin invited our own local “fathers” to share their thoughts on the significance of the document signed in Independence Hall on July 4, 1776, and what it means for Americans.

Ferrin Campbell Jr.
Mayor, Laurel Hill

 “In my opinion, the Declaration of Independence is the second-most important document in the history of mankind. It is second only to The Bible. It created our independence from the king of Great Britain.

“Most all of us have read the declaration in school. Everyone knows some of the signers. John Hancock’s name is the biggest. Our forefathers, such as John Hancock, Benjamin Franklin, and John Adams, those obviously were men of great wisdom and vision.

“The Declaration of Independence created the United States from our separation from England. It led to our freedoms that we have today. They are unique freedoms that no other country in the world can enjoy.

“I’ve always said about politics that I admire Thomas Jefferson, who wrote the Declaration of Independence, more than any other politician. He said he believed that the government that governs least governs best, and I’m a firm believer in that.”

David Cadle
Mayor, Crestview

“We take so many of our liberties for granted in this country that we sometimes lose sight of the fact that we must be vigilant to ensure those liberties are never taken away from us.

“Government is becoming more intrusive in our lives, and that goes against the vision held by our founding fathers when they put their lives at risk to establish this great nation and to produce our Constitution.

“I hope as we celebrate our nation’s birthday today that we take time to remember what those founding principles have meant to each of us.”