NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY, NAPLES, Italy –
On Saturday, we celebrated the 4th of July, marking our 244th year of independence. The Second Continental Congress gathered at Independence Hall in Philadelphia on July 4, 1776, to sign the Declaration of Independence. While celebrations may not include the typical barbecues, parades, and fireworks due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we can still reflect upon our great nation.
The Preamble to the Declaration of Independence states, "We hold these truths to be self-evident, 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."
Let us all take the opportunity to reflect on the importance of diversity and inclusion. Each of you, serving overseas, embody these great principles and demonstrate them to the world.
Our Navy deeply values diversity and the strength it brings to our team. Each and every shipmate deserves to be treated with the utmost dignity and respect.
We must redouble our efforts to ensure our culture is based on respect, dignity, and inclusion. Our Navy - and our nation - is stronger because we count men and women from every background as teammates.
To all of our Naples community, Happy Fourth of July!