Juneau, Alaska – Governor Sean Parnell issued the following statement in observance of the Fourth of July national holiday:

“America’s birthright of freedom has endured only through tremendous sacrifice. We are forever indebted to the many American military men and women who have served or serve currently on active duty, as members of the National Guard, and with our reserve military forces, especially those who gave their lives in defense of all we hold dear.

“I’ve made it a priority for Alaska to step up our support for our service members and the tens of thousands of veterans who call Alaska home. So if you see one of our men or women in uniform or if you come across a veteran while you’re out and about this week, take a moment and thank them for their service.

“Happy Fourth of July, Alaska.”