Happy Independence Day! Published Sept. 5, 2012 By Terry Edwards AFCEE Director LACKLAND AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- The United States of America turns 236 years old on the 4th of July. That's pretty young compared to most other countries in the world, some of which have been around for centuries. However, while we are relative newcomers on the global history timeline, we are hardly "least" when it comes to the freedoms we enjoy, our quality of life and the opportunities America provides for all of us. Our nation's founders ensured that would be the case when they took up arms to fight for our right to self-govern. The spirit of 1776, during which the Continental Congress declared our independence, is the same spirit that has brought us through the past 236 years - the belief that liberty backed by unalienable rights gives everyone the best opportunity for fulfilled lives free of tyranny and repression. We can never take our independence for granted and we can never assume someone else will take up the cause for us. It's up to each of us to remain engaged in keeping America strong and free as our ancestors intended. We are all doing that today by serving in the Air Force in uniform, as civilian Airmen or as contractors supporting the mission. We also do that by getting involved in our communities, taking part in the election process by casting our votes in local, state and national elections, and being good neighbors and citizens. These are the things that strengthen the fabric of our nation and make it the model of freedom throughout the world. While we enjoy the mid-week Independence Day holiday this year, please do so responsibly, have fun and know that you are part of a great Air Force and great nation. Happy 4th of July!