"On September 11th, these freedoms were challenged by an enemy that cannot tolerate a society where citizens are free to think, free to speak, and free to worship as they choose.  I know you feel as I do – I am proud to be an American and I’m proud that our Congress and our President stand united in our resolve that our liberty will not be destroyed by the forces of terror. 

"In our constitution Americans are granted cherished rights.  We can speak openly about our beliefs.  We are free to pray and we have the right to pledge allegiance to 'one nation under God.'  Last week a federal court said reciting our pledge to our flag in our schools is unconstitutional.  That decision is wrong and must be overturned.  Our nation was founded on a deep faith in God and denying school children the right to pledge their allegiance to our flag is not only unjust, it is a denial of the principles this nation was built upon. 

"The Fourth of July is a time we honor those who have given their lives for our freedom.  This year we also honor those who died on September 11th as well as the young men and women who are today fighting America’s war on terrorism at home and abroad. 

"Those who bravely serve to defend our nation should be in our prayers on this Independence Day.  May God be with them, with all of us, and may God bless the United States of America."