Be proud of your role this Independence Day Published June 23, 2015 By Gen. Ellen Pawlikowski Commander, Air Force Materiel Command WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio -- On July 4, 1776, the Continental Congress approved the Declaration of Independence, starting the colonies on the path to freedom. The next day, John Adams wrote to his wife, describing the time as "the most memorable epoch in the history of America" and saying he was "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 .... It ought to be solemnized with pomp and parade ... from one end of this continent to the other, from this time forward forever more." Our founding father hit the mark. Indeed, 239 years later, we still celebrate our nation's birthday with cookouts and music, parades and fireworks. We deck ourselves and our backyards with red, white and blue in tribute to our independence and as a show of our patriotism. As we enjoy the festivities with friends and family, we should also remember what our freedom costs, both to achieve and to sustain. Since 1776, thousands of Americans have given their lives in service to our nation, and millions more have put their lives at risk to preserve our democratic way of life. Air Force Materiel Command is a key part of that service. Be proud that we support democracy and uphold the ideals of our predecessors when we provide our nation's warfighters with the resources they need. Happy birthday, America!