Center commander: July 4 a time to revel in hard-earned liberties Published July 3, 2008 By Maj. Gen. Tom Owen WRALC Robins Air Force Base, GA -- The Fourth of July has always been one of my favorite holidays. After all, it comes in the middle of summer - a time of great weather and, for many, much deserved vacations. Most of us will get outside and grill some tasty food we will share with family and friends. We'll flock to beaches, mountains, and scenic parks for fun and festivities. Red, white and blue will be in abundance. Our Nation's flag will fly on every street and fireworks will light up the night. What's not to love? It is easily one of the best and most enjoyable days of the year. Of course, we must also remember this is a patriotic occasion - a celebration of our 232 years of independence as a Nation. Like most people I know, I was raised in a patriotic family. My father was a B-17 lead bombardier in 8th Air Force during World War II. My mother gave up college to return to her hometown and work at the local Army Air Corps base. Their example instilled in me a great pride in being an American and a lifelong passion for service to our great Nation. So obviously, Independence Day has always carried great meaning for my family. While we never lose sight of the significance of the date when our forefathers signed the Declaration of Independence, we have always observed the day in traditional American ways - parades and picnics, holiday ventures and summertime family fun. The cynic may say we're so busy having a good time, we're not paying enough respect to the costs paid for our freedom. I say we're celebrating that freedom. By enjoying ourselves on this holiday, we are reveling in those liberties so hard-earned by our revered ancestors. These liberties, even today, are vigilantly protected by our modern-day warriors, which includes those in forward-deployed areas and those of us in the USA. In fact, it can be said we're honoring our heritage by celebrating July Fourth in our customary ways. Granted, amid the rejoicing of the holiday, we may not remain focused on the historic implications of the day. But the day's meaning is inescapable. We'll hear the patriotic music during the fireworks. We'll see "Old Glory" everywhere we turn. We'll proudly stand for the national anthem at the ballpark or feel the swell in our chest and the lump in our throats as we see the flag marching by at a parade. In those instances, we'll fully know what day it is. We'll know, and we'll remember. When those moments occur, I ask that you send up a little prayer or give silent thanks for those generations of brave men and women who sacrificed so dearly for our Nation and its independence. Please, also remember the brave Airmen, Soldiers, Marines and Sailors deployed far from home and family on this July Fourth. That we have this day to enjoy is due to this continuing heritage of heroes, and it's fitting that we remember them and the ones who went before them as the founders of our celebration. It also can't be forgotten that each of you, members of the great work force of Robins Air Force Base, serve to bolster our country's strength and ensure its liberty. On this special holiday, I want you to know your efforts are recognized and appreciated. I'm proud to be your commander and fellow Airman. Mary Beth and I wish for all of you a terrific Fourth of July and a safe and happy holiday weekend.