The Fourth of July certainly falls under that category. With flavorful food, fun activities, parades and vibrant fireworks, the excitement is palpable.

It has been 250 years since the Declaration of Independence was approved by the Continental Congress on July 4th, 1776. While the Declaration of Independence celebrates our freedom from the British, America would not be the country that it is today were it not for the service of our nation’s military. 

Today we celebrate freedom, and remember the brave women and men who fought on the front lines day and night to preserve our independence. Oftentimes, this service comes at a price. According to a survey made by the Wounded Warrior Project in 2025, around 77% of Veterans reported symptoms of PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), 63% reported symptoms of a mental illness, and about 28% reported having to deal with suicidal thoughts. This survey alone proves that the sacrifice does not end at retirement, it continues to shape the lives of Veterans every day. 

For families living with an injured Veteran, the state of the Veterans mental health can greatly affect the health of the surrounding family members. In most cases, the roles of the family members can be turned upside down, as the other parent has to step up as caregiver for the Veteran, and the children have to take on responsibilities far beyond their age. These realities serve as a reminder that military service affects far more than the individual who served—it leaves a lasting impact on entire families and communities. 

So today, as we enjoy the abundance of food, fellowship, and fireworks, may we never forget the individuals and their families whose sacrifice made that freedom possible for us. 

Happy fourth of July from We Signed Up Too <3