West Virginia’s governor and representatives in the U.S. Senate wished state residents a happy Fourth of July in video messages shared ahead of the holiday.
In declaring Friday as an additional holiday for state employees, Justice urged residents to remember the importance of July 4th.
“We should all take time to reflect on all the sacrifices made by our veterans and active duty military members this Independence Day,” he said. “Their sacrifices are the reason we can celebrate the freedoms of this great nation. I hope all our state employees take time to reflect on this while spending time with their family and friends this weekend.”
“During this long weekend, I hope you all get the chance to discover the many wonders of Almost Heaven. Our state is full of hidden gems just waiting to be explored, so take some time to go out and find them. Babydog and I wish everyone a safe and fun Independence Day weekend.”
U.S. Sen. Shelley Moore Capito, R-W.Va., and Sen. Joe Manchin, I-W.Va., each urged West Virginians to consider the meaning and history behind the annual holiday as they celebrate this year.
“I hope that you, your families and your friends all enjoy a big celebration,” Capito said.
“On July 4th, 1776, America’s Founding Fathers laid the cornerstone of the most free and prosperous nation in the history of the world. The Declaration of Independence cemented that we are all endowed by our creator with inalienable rights, including life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. We owe all our founders, and the men and women who have fought to preserve our nation over the last 248 years, a great deal of thanks. I hope all West Virginians and your loved ones take the time to celebrate our great country and all the blessings we enjoy this 4th of July,” she said.
The Fourth is a “time for us all to put aside our differences and come together as Americans to celebrate our great nation,” Manchin said.
“On this day, we remember the brave heroes who were willing to take up arms, fight for our freedoms and create this great country 248 years ago. We also honor our brave service members who risk their lives every day to keep us safe. Their sacrifices prove that American ideals are worth fighting for, and they are an inspiration to us all,” he said.
“I share the pride and patriotism all West Virginians feel for America today and every day, and I am incredibly proud of our state and her people. I wish all of you a very happy and safe Fourth of July. May God bless you and your families, the Wild and Wonderful Mountain State and the United States of America,” Manchin said.