The words of our Founding Fathers through the Declaration of Independence written over 200 years ago, still ring true to this very day. Students of history and pragmatic in their actions, they gave voice to a free people of the 13 colonies. Rooted in the belief that free men can rightly and justly govern themselves, they declared their freedom from the British Crown, and gave birth to a new nation. Their words in this document and many other of our founding documents provide historical context as a means to describe the course of human events and why it is necessary to correct and repeal evil and tyrannical actions. Even in this declaration, it is stated how governments are to be distrusted, vigilantly observed, and corrected when it faults. It is the duty, the right, and the obligation of free men to be the vigilant protectors and defenders of freedom. As we were told by President Andrew Jackson, “vigilance is the price of freedom.” We must value these words and we must remember these words. Shall we ever forget them, we will lose our way as a people, as a country, and as a free nation. Let us pray we never forget their words, their actions, and their wisdom. Happy birthday America.