Nikos
– The Fourth of July is especially dear to my family. For us, it is not just our nation’s birthday. It is the day Michelle and I became parents 12 years ago. And I can’t wait to watch the fireworks with Malia on her birthday tonight, as we do every year.
As we celebrate the profound pride of being American, today is a time to honor the women and men in our armed forces, whose immeasurable bravery and sacrifice have made our country what it is today.
That sacrifice is shared with husbands and wives, with sons and daughters, with fathers and mothers, who are asked to wait at home as their loved ones protect our nation. Their heroism, too, has helped pave the path of our freedom.
Even before we moved into the White House, Michelle was a champion for those military families. She has witnessed their struggles, and she has made it her personal mission to fight for them. On this Fourth of July, she recorded a personal message, commemorating our nation’s birthday and paying tribute to these families.
Please take a minute to watch Michelle’s video — and join us as we honor our military families here and abroad: http://my.barackobama.com/July4th
From all of us, happy Independence Day.
Thank you, and may God bless America.
President Barack Obama
July 4th, 2010
