Independence

Some Fourth of July's are more impactful than others. It depends on what's going on with family and friends, and what the Nation is up to. 2017 could be a banner year in terms of the country being relatively unencumbered with large-scale military campaigns (Afghanistan is still in progress - longest war in US history, but not significant in terms of scale), and enjoying low unemployment and a top-performing stock exchange.

But when one invokes the concept of "Independence", the sacrifices of our men and women in the Armed Forces jump to the front of the stage. As we partake in Independence Day parades and festivities, let's remember the countless soldiers, sailors, airmen and marines that gave their lives to keep this Nation - INDEPENDENT.