What does Independence mean to you? Published July 9, 2013 By Lt. Col. Andrew Lattimore 436th Medical Support Squadron DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. -- July 4th is a day that many people associate with summer cook-outs, getting together with family and friends, and just having a good time. But rarely do people ever stop and think about what independence truly means and why we should be ever so grateful we have our independence here in the United States. As a child growing up on the Jersey shore in the 1970's, July 4th was especially fun as it typically meant a trip to the lake for a family cook-out before returning home and heading to the boardwalk to experience the rides at one of the three piers where rides were available. When the sun went down, there would always be a fireworks display and we would marvel at the various colors that lit up the dark sky. However, I never stopped to ask myself, "What does independence really mean, and why is it important?" If you look up the word "independence" in the dictionary, you may get the definition, "the state or quality of being independent", or "freedom from the control, influence, support, aid, or the like, of others". Many of us have a difficult time relating to these definitions when we think of our country and our lives, because we consider ourselves free to do pretty much whatever we like. But imagine what your life would be like if you were not free to do what you want. How would you act if you were suddenly told you were now going to be subjected to someone else's control and you can no longer do the things you want to do? For some people in other countries around the world, this is exactly what they are faced with every day as their independence has not yet been granted. They are subjected to deplorable conditions or forced to work long hours with little or no benefits given directly to them. I have heard stories from people who have immigrated to the United States from countries which have not yet gained their independence and their stories are nothing short of amazing. All of them are grateful to now live in an independent country where they have the opportunity to positively change their lives. We often hear the term, "Freedom isn't free" or "ultimate sacrifice" and I sometimes think these points are lost amidst all of the celebrations. It took a lot for the United States to gain its independence and for many people it cost them a lot. While I recognize Independence Day is not the same as Memorial Day or Veteran's Day, I do believe the latter two would not be as meaningful if our country had not first gained its independence. So here's my plea to you. When you're out and about and have some time to yourself, take a few minutes to think about independence and ask yourself what independence means to you. Put it in terms you can understand and refer to your answer periodically. I recognize everyone will not have the same answer but I do believe the answer may surprise you!