Rep. Hank Johnson's Fourth of July message

Happy Fourth of July! All across our great country and the Fourth Congressional District, people are coming together, celebrating our independence and freedom, decked out in our red and white and blue, firing up the grill and having a good time with friends and family.

As a member of the House Armed Services Committee, it gives me great pride to serve our nation, Georgia and citizens of the Fourth District. Every day that I go to work – whether in Washington or in Georgia – I work on behalf of the men and women who so honorably and bravely serve us in the U.S. Armed Forces.

So on the day that is quintessentially American, we’re reminded of our Declaration more than 230 years ago that made us a beacon to the world and continues to inspire people the world over to strive for their own freedom from tyranny, despotism and petty dictatorships.

On this Fourth of July, I especially want to salute the men and women who serve us in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines and Coast Guard. Thank you!

Fourth of July events in the Fourth District

There will be a number of events going on for the Fourth of July in the district this year. The weather might be a little rough, so please check with each city or a weather map before making your way to an event.

In downtown Covington, the annual Independence in the Park will be held at 4 p.m. There will be live music, food, and fireworks. For more information, click HERE.

The Pied Piper Parade will be held in downtown Decatur, beginning at 6 p.m. The parade will be followed by a concert at 7 p.m., and at 9 p.m. fireworks on the square. For more information, click HERE.

In Snellville, the Star Spangled Snellville July 4th celebration will feature a number of family friendly events. The Gwinnett Orchestra will perform at 7:45 p.m., and fireworks are at 9:30. For more information, click HERE.

Lastly, congratulations to American Legion Post 77 in Conyers and its immediate past Commander Zeste Debro (left) for being named Outstanding Post for 2012-13 for the entire state of Georgia! I had the privilege of attending the 2012 Memorial Day ceremony at Post 77. Their celebration starts at about 10 a.m. on Thursday with a free barbeque.

And by the way, Commander Debro was just selected as the American Legion commander for the state of Georgia. Debro was installed as the state commander in a ceremony on Sunday. Congratulations to Debro and to Commander Art Darr, who was recently chosen as the next commander for Conyers Post 77. Thank you gentlemen for all that you do! For more, click HERE.

Please keep our soldiers and their families in mind this holiday, and please have a safe and enjoyable Fourth of July holiday. Thank you.