July 4 is the day that Americans around the world celebrate our independence. Every year we have a chance to reflect on what it means to be an independent country, but this year has shown how important it is to be able to make independent decisions for the health and safety of our own citizens. It has also given us a chance to reflect on how far America has come over the last two hundred and forty-four years, and how far we still have to go in order to truly manifest the aspirations of equality and freedom that our country was founded on. No national experiment in independence is ever perfect, but it is a gift that should be cherished, cultivated, and respected. And as we look to strengthen our partnership with the Marshall Islands, we hope that the bonds that continue to tie us together will cultivate the health, prosperity, and independence of our two great countries. On behalf of the U.S. Embassy staff, allow me to wish all Americans in the Marshall Islands and all our Marshallese friends a Happy Independence Day! Ambassador Roxanne Cabral, U.S. Ambassador to the Marshall Islands.
