  I actually celebrated Independence Day last Thursday. My roommate and I had some friends over and watched the fireworks in our neighborhood from our balcony.
It was quite nice. Yesterday, I worked at the restaurant. My job is located directly across the street from the WTC/Ground Zero site. They had a huge ground breaking ceremony to begin rebuilding there, and numerous fireworks displays, so we expected to be quite busy and we were. I did have an opportunity to speak to a co-worker’s cousin on the phone, who is currently serving in the Navy.
I thanked him for serving and wished him a happy 4th of July. We talked for quite a while, and when he comes to New York, I will show him the town. I have been fighting for months now for my restaurant to do something for our military that come and dine or drink. Some coworkers have complained that they do not tip well. But I have always objected to their complaints, because if it weren’t for these guys who protect our freedoms, we would not be able to come to work and make a living at all. I told the host, whose son is now in Iraq, to bring all of these guys to my station, as I did not want their tips. I feel guilty giving them a check at all. They willingly make the sacrifice, and put their lives on the line to serve our country, and don’t get much for it.
The least they deserve is a free beer. So, yesterday, on the Fourth of July, our District Manager was in the restaurant. I took the opportunity to calmly say to him, “You know how we give a 15% discount to our corporate business costumers? Is there any reason we can’t extend that to our Military?” I was surprised at how quickly he agreed with me.
So, I am proud to have accomplished something on the greatest holiday for the United States of America. As an Actor, I have had the opportunity to travel this great country. I’ve been to just about every major city in every state, with the exception of Florida, Alaska, and Hawaii. So, I know how great this nation is. Our country is divided on many issues, but we stand united when it comes to supporting our troops.
I have decided to find a more proactive way to do so. So, I say this a day late… Happy Independence Day! I close with lyrics by Lee Greenwood.. If tomorrow all the things were gone, I’d worked for all my life. And I had to start again, with just my children and my wife. I’d thank my lucky stars, to be livin here today. ‘Cause the flag still stands for freedom, and they can’t take that away. And I’m proud to be an American, where at least I know I’m free.
And I wont forget the men who died, who gave that right to me. And I gladly stand up, next to you and defend her still today. ‘Cause there ain’t no doubt I love this land, God bless the USA. From the lakes of Minnesota, to the hills of Tennessee. Across the plains of Texas, From sea to shining sea. From Detroit down to Houston, and New York to L.A. Well there's pride in every American heart, and its time we stand and say.
That I’m proud to be an American, where at least I know I’m free.
And I wont forget the men who died, who gave that right to me. And I gladly stand up, next to you and defend her still today. ‘Cause there ain’t no doubt I love this land, God bless the USA.
And I’m proud to be and American, where at least I know I’m free.
And I wont forget the men who died, who gave that right to me. And I gladly stand up, next to you and defend her still today. ‘Cause there ain’t no doubt I love this land, God bless the USA. 
