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By State Sen. Greg Elkins

Independence Day allows us all to reflect on our country and recognize our nation’s enduring principles.

On July 4, 247 years ago, the Declaration of Independence was ratified by visionaries who initiated the grandest experiment of self-governance in human history by creating a new form of government; a constitutional republic. A nation whose foundation recognizes God-given inalienable rights, which the government may not take away nor infringe upon but must protect.

“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,” are among the most potent sequence of words ever penned by man. Those words still ring loudly throughout the world today as America remains what President Ronald Reagan called the shining city on the hill. Our nation serves as a beacon of freedom for all the world.

Freedom comes from sacrifices. Countless Americans have fought on and off the battlefield for our rights. Please join me in keeping our service members, past and present, first and foremost in your heart as you enjoy holiday celebrations.

As we celebrate independence on July 4, we also celebrate our country’s unity despite our differences. Our nation and great commonwealth were founded on a simple principle: “United we stand, divided we fall.”

As you create memories with family and friends, remember those principles of freedom, sacrifice and unity. We’re one nation under God, and together we will continue to ensure these principles endure.

Kim and I hope you and your family enjoy this Independence Day. It is a pleasure to serve as your representative voice in Frankfort. God bless America.

Senator Greg Elkins, R-Winchester, represents the 28th Senate District, including Bath, Clark, Menifee, and Montgomery Counties and an eastern portion of Fayette County. He was elected to serve the 28th District in a special election, filling a vacancy left by former state Senator Ralph Alvarado. Elkins is a member of the Interim Joint Committees on Local Government, State Government, Families and Children, and Health Services.