Happy Independence Day!!!

Today is the day that we celebrate our independence. I've always loved this holiday. I mean nothing could be better than fresh corn on the cob, fresh watermelon, or burning yourself with those all so neccessary 1800 degree sparklers. The smell of sulfer, smoke, and barbecue. Yes, it's true! Nothing compares to the fourth of July. Although, it's not justice and just plain criminal to not remember all of those who have served, fought, and died for this great country.


So here's a glance,


IN CONGRESS, JULY 4, 1776
Thomas Jefferson wrote The Declaration of Indepence


IN 1814, Francis Scott Key wrote what we now know as the star spangled banner


From 1861-1865, the United States of America was engaged in the Great Civil War (North- losses 360,000 dead and 275,200 wounded) (South-losses 258,000 dead and 137,000 wounded)


World War I, the united states joined in 1917 and was engaged until it's end in 1918 (116,516 died and 204,002 wounded)


World War II, the United States enters in 1941-1945 (291,557 dead and 670,846 wounded)


Vietnam War, United States joins in 1961 and was pulled out in 1973 (more than 50,000 dead)


Persain Gulf War, the United States 1991 (145 dead, 467 wounded)


Current War in Iraq (2003- current) 4,000 dead as of March 2008. As of March 2008 there were 8,914 wounded requiring medical air transport. 20,416 wounded did not require medical air transport. Of all the wounded 13,109 were unable to return to duty within 72 hours. Medical air transport was required for an additional 8,273 for non-hostile injuries, and for 23,052 for diseases or other medical conditions.