Some are apparently not celebrating this holiday, others are actively trashing the United States or trying to do so. Many more will still dress in red, white and blue, have picnics, watch fireworks and appreciate the opportunities afforded them by this most generous of countries. It is not necessary to make the obligatory, but it is “not perfect” statement as no work of humanity even comes close to perfection. Certainly no collective work. The United States has endured and prevailed over more challenges than we see presently and, I firmly believe, will again. I am proud of this land and if you know world history, the United States is as exemplar a collection of diverse people as ever existed. Anywhere. Anytime.

People like General Nathanial Greene who gave so much and endured so much personally are simply inspiring. Had he not died young many historians believe he would have been President, perhaps even the first President, if, as you recall, Geo Washington was most reluctant. The esteem that the Commander of the Continental Southern army was held is seen in the scores of places named for him and monuments, like this in Savannah’s Jackson Square built in 1830, that were raised to him.

I am equally proud of those unknown, like my ancestor, Peter Hileman who served in the Continental Army for a least one year including a stint in the bitter cold winter at Morristown and the battle of Monmouth in New Jersey. His two sons also served in the militia and later as scouts in Western Pennsylvania. I am sure that is why our family settled in the Allegheny Valley.

I celebrate this Fourth of July and if you travel across the country you will find a hard working, diverse, tolerant, patriotic, generous, kind and happy people almost without exception.

God Bless the United States of America.