The Fourth of July is upon us, marking a day of great importance. In 1776, the people fought for the birth of a new nation founded on the principles of democracy. Since then, we have fought in numerous wars, resulting in the loss of many lives for the sake of democracy. Operating under a democracy, we have the right to speak our minds and the right to vote for those who will represent our rights of freedom and justice for all.

I have served in the United States Navy during the Vietnam era. Currently, I am affiliated with several organizations: I am a member of The American Legion Post 103 in Douglaston, the Catholic War Veterans and Auxiliary Post 1979, the Queens Village Republican Club and the Grand Knights of St. Anastasia Knights of Columbus Council 5911, also in Douglaston. Additionally, I fulfill the role of Lector at St. Anastasia Parish in Douglaston and am a member of the Holy Name Society at Our Lady of the Snows Parish in Floral Park. At the age of 75, these are my small ways of serving my country as a token of gratitude for all that it has provided me.

I also want to emphasize the importance of voting in the next election. Please make sure to go out and vote. Let's honor the sacrifices of our ancestors who died for our freedom by ensuring their efforts were not in vain. As it says in the Declaration of Independence, "We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness."

Let freedom ring this Fourth of July in 2024. And remember that it's not just a day for store discounts and barbecues; it's a celebration of our independence from tyranny. Also, please honor those brave men and women serving in the military by displaying the American flag, as they protect our freedoms.

Sincerely Yours,
Frederick R. Bedell Jr.
Bellerose, N.Y.