Independence Day
July 2, 2014
Each year on July 4th, Americans celebrate Independence Day with the abundance of flags, fireworks, parades, cookouts, and festivals. But how did it all begin? According to Emma Metcalf, Medical Center Director, it all started with the signing of the Declaration of Independence, the statement adopted by the Continental Congress on July 4, 1776, announcing that the 13 American colonies, then at war with Great Britain, were forming as a new nation—the United States of America. “While this document certainly served an important role in the freedoms we enjoy today,” says Metcalf, “we wouldn’t be celebrating our independence without the ongoing support and protection of our nation’s Veterans.”
“I can’t help but think how blessed we are by the people who felt it was their duty to stand up for and serve this country,” says Metcalf. “At the Lexington VA Medical Center, we pay tribute to the service and sacrifices of our Veterans every day by providing them with the best care possible. We owe them so much.”
According to Metcalf, America is the land of the free because of these brave men and women, many who are still standing watch this very minute. “This 4th of July we extend a very special ‘thank you’ to all of our Veterans,” informs Metcalf. “No group of people more richly deserves those simple, heartfelt words of appreciation than our Veterans.”
Please celebrate responsibility.
Written by Andrew Stofleth, Public Affairs Intern
