Following is a 4th of July message from General William E. Ward, commander of U.S. Africa Command. On America's birthday, we celebrate the greatest gift given to us by our forefathers--the gift of freedom. This gift is one that never gets old and continues to be passed down, and improved upon, from generation to generation. On July 4, 1776, in the city of Philadelphia, members of the Second Continental Congress signed an open letter to the world. Our Declaration of Independence announced it to be "self evident" that "all men are created equal" and are entitled to "life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness." It is this Declaration of Independence, with its boldness to declare the rights of all mankind, that has been a beacon of hope to so many people for so long, in America and elsewhere. In the words of Abraham Lincoln, our 16th president, our nation was "conceived in liberty and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal." As Americans, we enjoy many personal liberties, including the right to vote, the right to practice our religions of choice, and the right to express our opinions freely, without fear. Our good fortunes are not universal. Some of the world's population are still living in fear of their governments and lacking the most basic rights that we often take for granted. The words "all men are created equal," which should apply to all races, genders, and nationalities, are sadly not recognized in many parts of the world. How can we, as Americans, help serve as a model of freedom for others? Here at U.S. Africa Command, we are working with African militaries and regional organizations such as the African Union to help them with their goal of improving long-term security and stability, so that all of their people and economies can flourish. In the spirit of America's 233rd birthday, please take time to reflect on the historic events leading to our nation's inception, and keep service members, civilians, contractors, and their families who are working with partner nations around the world in your thoughts. I wish you and your families a safe and happy 4th of July! Happy Birthday America! General William "Kip" Ward