Happy US Independence Day!

Have a Happy Independence Day!

I will continue my own tradition of opening up a bottle of American Champaign and make toast to President Washington and all the others who worked and fought to make America the country it is today. That includes Lafayette whose participation during the Revolutionary War was vital to our victory, although he rarely receives proper credit for his contributions.

Happy Fourth!
Fred
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John Trumbull
Oil on canvas, 12' x 18'
Commissioned 1817; purchased 1819; placed 1826
Rotunda

The first painting to be completed by Trumbull shows the signing of the Declaration of Independence in what is now called Independence Hall, Philadelphia, on July 4, 1776. The painting features the committee that drafted the Declaration of Independence--John Adams, Roger Sherman, Thomas Jefferson presenting the document, and Benjamin Franklin--standing before John Hancock, the President of the Continental Congress. The painting includes portraits of 42 of the 56 signers and 5 other patriots. The artist sketched the individuals and the room from life.

John Trumbull (1756–1843) was born in Connecticut, the son of the governor. After graduating from Harvard University, he served in the Continental Army under General Washington. He studied painting with Benjamin West in London and focused on history painting. - AOC

(Washington and Lafayette)

070528-N-5459S-004 BALTIC SEA (May 28, 2007) - Guided-missile destroyer USS Mahan (DDG 72) approaches guided-missile cruiser USS Normandy (CG 60) during a "Sail Pass" in the Baltic Sea. Mahan recently turned over duties to Normandy as the flagship for Rear Adm Michael K. Mahon, commander of Standing NATO Maritime Group One (SNMG1). U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Vincent J. Street (RELEASED) - Navy NewsStand

Be sure to take a moment (or drink a beer) in thanks those who help make America a free country.