9th AF commander delivers Independence Day message to Airmen Published July 2, 2008 By Lt. Gen. Gary North Commander, 9th Air Force and U.S. Air Forces Central SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. -- Two hundred and thirty two years ago, between the walls of a small building in Philadelphia, 56 men gathered together to courageously adopt a document that would chart the course of our nation's history. This document, known as the Declaration of Independence, recognized the right for people to live in a society free from oppression and tyranny. The Declaration of Independence has been identified, by many historians, as the most influential document in history. It is the words that Thomas Jefferson wrote that have been especially poignant. He wrote, "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." By signing this document, our founding fathers vowed to give up their status, property and lives to defend those rights. Our founding fathers knew that it was their responsibility to fight for the rights of all Americans. This is why we fight -- to preserve the rights that were defined by the founding fathers of this great nation and that are enjoyed by our families and friends. It is our responsibility to continue to fight for freedom whether in our country or Iraq or Afghanistan. John Adams said it best in a letter he wrote to his wife, Abigail, that "a Constitution of Government once changed from Freedom, can never be restored. Liberty, once lost, is lost forever." As we celebrate our nation's independence,please join me in reflecting on our proud heritage. and the proud heritage of those we are supporting in Iraq and Afghanistan as they stand up their governments and experience some of the successes and challenges we faced as a new democracy 232 years ago. As well, we are heartened by the work of our coalition forces in the Horn of Africa and what they bring to stability and enhancing the cooperation with the host nations we work alongside in the region. I am proud to serve with you. God bless you and our great nation!