This year marks the 242nd birthday of our country and whether attending a fireworks show, a barbecue or some other family gathering, there is plenty to do in St. John the Baptist Parish.

This holiday emphasizes time-honored traditions, but more importantly designates the Fourth of July as a day of reflection and celebration of the freedoms we enjoy today.

Now is a great  time to remember our Founding Fathers, celebrate the adoption of the Declaration of Independence and the legal separation of the 13 colonies from Great Britain.

Our heroes are the men and women who went beyond the call of duty and put their lives in danger for this great country.

In 1776, the foundation of a new government that would derive its power from the consent of the people was established. Our way-of-life is attributed to those who fought selflessly to allow us to live out our dreams.

As we celebrate the birth of our nation, we must not forget our armed forces serving around the globe — continuing to protect the democracy we cherish.

We salute our Veterans and all members of our armed forces whose unwavering commitment and sacrifice help to preserve our great country.

It is an honor to host the Veterans luncheon and fireworks celebration each year, as it allows us to show appreciation for our heroes, while celebrating with family and friends.

Being an American is a powerful privilege, and Independence Day allows us to celebrate with those who make it possible.

Please join us for the Veteran’s Luncheon on Tuesday/July 3 at 11 a.m. at REGALA Gymnasium, located at 200 Regala Park Road in Reserve.

During the luncheon we will pay homage to our local service men and women through a video tribute.

The Veterans Tribute will also be featured during the evening broadcast and again on the St. John the Baptist Parish website and Government Access Channel.

Families, friends and visitors are invited to join us later that evening for the Fireworks Celebration at St. Peter’s Catholic Church, 1550 Highway 44 in Reserve and St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, 2361 Louisiana Highway 18 in Edgard.

The celebration will begin at 6 p.m. with a live broadcast of the event beginning at 7 p.m. on the Government Access Channel (RTC/Comcast 15/U-Verse 99).

The Independence Day event will culminate with a 30-minute fireworks display on the Mississippi River beginning promptly at 9 p.m.

I’d like to wish everyone a very happy and safe Fourth of July and ask that you join me in thanking all of the awesome men and women for their bravery and courage!

Thank you and may God bless you and may he continue to bless America.

Natalie Robottom is St. John the Baptist Parish President. She can be reached at communications@stjohn-la.gov.