Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet issued the following statement in recognition of Independence Day today:

"Every 4th of July we celebrate the values and traditions that make America extraordinary.  Independence Day is a powerful reminder that we are all one nation with a shared belief in the strength of our democracy.  As many of us celebrate our nation today with loved ones, we remember the brave men and women overseas who are fighting to protect the gifts of freedom, justice and equality that define our country. "