By Gov. Pete Ricketts Office
LINCOLN – Governor Pete Ricketts issued the following statement in observance of Independence Day:
“This Independence Day marks 246 years since the birth of the United States. On the Fourth of July, we light the sky with fireworks to celebrate our nation’s founding. The United States endures as the greatest country on earth. We’re blessed to live in a Republic where we enjoy the benefits of liberty.”
“As we display the U.S. flag this holiday weekend, we’re reminded of the brave Americans who’ve sacrificed through the years to preserve our Republic. We also give thanks for the men and women actively serving in our military on missions around the world.”
“This Fourth of July, let’s remember that freedom isn’t something we passively receive. It’s something we achieve together by taking on the responsibilities of citizenship. In the words of Dwight D. Eisenhower, ‘The winning of freedom is not to be compared to the winning of a game—with the victory recorded forever in history. Freedom has its life in the hearts, the actions, the spirits of men and so must be daily earned and refreshed.’”
“Over the Fourth of July weekend, let’s reflect on these words as we spend time with family and friends celebrating America.”
“Susanne, the kids, and I wish everyone an enjoyable Independence Day. If you’re traveling, be sure to buckle up, avoid driving if you’ve been drinking, and use caution around construction zones.”