Today, July 4, 2008, please join me in celebrating our Nation's birthday.

As we observe this 4th of July period with our families and close friends, I hope all of us will take a few moments to reflect on the meaning of this holiday and to give thanks for our personal rights and freedoms.

On this day, 232 years ago, 13 colonies in North America declared independence and the United States of America was born. That remarkable date, July 4, 1776, marked the beginning of a democracy that has inspired nations and peoples across the globe ever since.

The United States has played a key role in helping bring peace and democracy to other parts of the world. Generations of young Americans worked with international partners to provide conditions for security, thereby allowing political stability and economic prosperity to thrive.

Now, centuries after the first Independence Day, let us not forget our fellow people around the world who continue to suffer as a result of oppression, corruption, and want. African nations face tremendous challenges in their own post-colonialism era as they struggle to rise above political and economic conflict. United States Africa Command is committed to helping these nations achieve, for themselves, the same levels of personal liberties that we now experience -- to help them build their capacities for personal safety and security, which will contribute to political development and economic prosperity, leading to a better quality of life for the people of Africa, which in turn helps all of us prosper.

Thank you for all you do.

Have a safe and enjoyable holiday weekend.