
Part 1
Some folks right now feel like our democracy is too threatened to celebrate our 250th anniversary. This July 4th, come with me to my corner of Virginia for just a few minutes, and let me share with you the story of a courageous Americans from different generations who give us so much to celebrate on this 250th anniversary.

Part 2
In 1776, our founding fathers went to war with the strongest army on the planet – and won – just for the right to live freely and promote the ideals of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. They developed a system so strong, it has endured to this day, and THAT is something worth celebrating.

Part 3
The Civil War was the closest our nation has ever come to destruction. In 1860, the Confederacy pitted brother against brother, father against son, and the pillars of our democracy against the evils which sought to undermine it. In the end, it was the spirit of those self-evident truths which won the day, and THAT is something worth celebrating.

Part 4
23 young men from Bedford gave their lives on the shores of Normandy in the defense of freedom and democracy abroad. They are American heroes who represented their home state well.

Part 5
They had the courage to do what the nation needed done. From Barbara Johns and the students of Motion High School, to the protesters in Danville and across the South, Civil Rights were won because those folks who were excluded recognized that they deserved a place within those unalienable rights.

Part 6
Through the troubles our country has faced, it remains a beacon of hope for the American dream, where people of all stripes can come to make a life for their family. I am inspired, as always, by the fearlessness of every generation to fight for the values of our nation. Happy birthday, America.
