"The second day of July, 1776, will be the most memorable epoch in the history of America. I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated by succeeding generations as the great anniversary festival. It ought to be commemorated as the day of deliverance, by solemn acts of devotion to God Almighty. It ought to be solemnized with pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illuminations, from one end of this continent to the other, from this time forward forever more.

"You will think me transported with enthusiasm but I am not. I am well aware of the toil and blood and treasure, that it will cost us to maintain this declaration, and support and defend these states. Yet through all the gloom I can see the rays of ravishing light and glory. I can see that the end is more than worth all the means. And that posterity will triumph in that days transaction, even although we should rue it, which I trust in God we shall not."

When John Adams penned the above words to his wife, Abigail, he was referring to the day that the Declaration of Independence was passed.

The day we celebrate our nation's founding, the Fourth of July, was the day the document was signed.

Some historians say that the actual document was not signed until Aug. 2, but both Adams and Thomas Jefferson said it was signed on July 4, and we'll take their word for it.

Our country has grown into a world power since the days of Adams and Jefferson. It has become the greatest testament to freedom the world has ever known.

In its 235th year we are going through a struggle, but we have had struggles before and we have come out stronger.

We have no doubt that we will now.

We owe much to our forefathers for their vision and we owe much to those who have supported that vision, both civilian and military, who have given of their time, blood and their very lives to preserve that vision.

It is our sacred duty to continue on with that vision. We can thank God for his help on fulfilling that mission.

On our county's 235th birthday may Almighty God continue to bless the United States of America and every person who believes in its principals.