As we commence July 4th weekend, the annual celebration of our nation, I reflect on the resiliency of our country and its people. Over the past couple of years, our country, and all of you, have adapted to challenges in ways we never imagined we would. Through it all, I continue to see how capable we are of positive change. I am proud to lead this agency and to work with you all in service to our nation. 

July 4th is a great day to enjoy time with friends and family. It is the people around us, the relationships that support us, that feed our resiliency and our ability to deliver the mission of the Forest Service, with all its complexities, every day. I hope that all of you will have time for rest and recovery this holiday weekend. 

While many Americans will enjoy the day off on July 4th, there are many who are working. Our recreation and frontline employees will be working hard all weekend to foster a welcoming respite in nature for millions of visitors. Law enforcement officers help visitors have a safe experience. Wildland fire personnel on the front line and in support roles are fighting ongoing wildfires and responding to new starts to keep communities and visitors safe. Please join me in thanking these employees, and others, who play a key role in helping you and our visitors enjoy Independence Day on their national forests and grasslands with family and friends. 

Thank you for everything you do. Be safe out there, whether you are working or recreating. Enjoy some time in our great outdoors with family, friends or time for yourself to decompress. Happy Independence Day.