RNC Chairman Reince Priebus and Co-Chairman Sharon Day Independence Day Message

RNC Chairman Reince Priebus and Co-Chairman Sharon Day Independence Day Message

WASHINGTON - Republican National Committee (RNC) Chairman Reince Priebus and Co-Chairman Sharon Day released the following Independence Day message:

"On this day two-hundred and thirty-six years ago, our nation bravely declared its independence, asserting our unalienable rights to 'life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness,'" said RNC Chairman Reince Priebus. "Today, we celebrate that bold declaration and express our gratitude for all the blessings of our God-given freedoms.

"Amid the picnics, parades, and fireworks, we must also remember those who are at this moment defending our freedoms abroad. These selfless men and women especially deserve our thoughts and prayers today, for they are fighting for the very ideals we celebrate."

"The Fourth of July encourages us to reflect on our nation's history, both our triumphs and our trials," said RNC Co-Chairman Sharon Day. "The last few years have been extraordinarily difficult for millions of American families, but America's story is one of overcoming challenges. We can and will prevail, and move toward a more prosperous future.

"We wish everyone a Happy Independence Day. In the words of Katharine Lee Bates' great patriotic hymn, may 'God shed his grace on thee,' America! And may He always richly bless this land we love and this country we cherish."