In my family, we have a tradition: When celebrating birthdays, we take turns sharing what we love or admire about the guest of honor. As we celebrate the 250th anniversary of America’s founding, it feels fitting to pause and take a similar moment of reflection.
I love America and I love our history. I believe with all my heart that this country is the greatest in human history; a beacon of freedom, hope, opportunity, and justice to the rest of the world. On this 250th birthday, we as Americans have so much to celebrate.
Our Inalienable Rights.
I love that our nation was founded on the truth that our rights are endowed by our Creator. They are not granted by government and cannot be taken away.
I’m grateful that our founders not only believed this, but articulated these principles in the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights. This was a bold and previously untried framework; one we must never forget or take for granted. Government of the people, by the people, and for the people only works when we see and treat each other as people made with inherent dignity and worth.
Our American Heroes.
I love our American heroes and their courageous dedication to defending independence and freedom. For 250 years, Central Pennsylvanians have been willing to lay everything on the line for freedom, offering their talents, treasures, honor, and even their lives. I love the American spirit that vows to overcome all odds; it was surely necessary to secure our unlikely victory in the Revolutionary War.
I’m struck by the courage of Col. Timothy Green (1735–1812), a local signer of the Hanover Independence Resolves in June 1774—a significant act of resistance that pledged support for independence and contributed to Pennsylvania’s broader push to assert colonial rights.
Mary Ludwig Hays (“Molly Pitcher”) of Carlisle is another powerful example. She delivered water to soldiers during the Battle of Monmouth in 1778 and, after her husband was wounded, took over his cannon under heavy British fire. Her bravery so impressed George Washington that he made her a noncommissioned officer after the battle.
We can take pride in knowing that our region and our local heroes played a major role in the American Revolution, serving as a crossroads of military, political, and civilian activity. Pine Grove Furnace produced munitions. The Carlisle Barracks hosted troops. Carlisle served as a muster point, supply depot, hospital town, and transportation hub. The reminders of this history are all around us.
I also love and admire our more recent heroes— Marine Lance Cpl. Jason Frye of Perry County, Army Sgt. Patrick Hawkins of Carlisle, and many others—who selflessly gave their lives in service to our nation, demonstrating remarkable valor. Their legacy of service stands alongside that of heroes like Marine Lance Cpl. Nicholas Morrison and Army SFC Randall Shughart, whose lives and sacrifices continue to inspire.
I am grateful that here in Central Pennsylvania and across this nation the American Hero and the American Spirit are alive and well. There is no shortage of heroes in our past, nor in our future.
Our Limitless Opportunities.
I love that America has always represented opportunity. Even in colonial times, coming here meant a chance to start fresh, work hard, and succeed on one’s own merits. There is no better system than the American free market, where someone can start with nothing and reach incredible heights.
My own family includes people who came here for that opportunity, including my sixth great-grandfather, Tobias Bogner, one of the early settlers of Dauphin County who fought in the Revolutionary War.
My family story, like so many Americans, also includes post-revolution immigrants who came seeking a better life—from Russia, Ukraine, Ireland, England, and Switzerland—escaping persecution, poverty, and famine. All chose to risk the unknown for the opportunities only offered in America.
Our People.
I love the phrase E Pluribus Unum— “out of many, one.” America is not defined by a single race or creed but by an idea. Anyone who embraces the values of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness can become an American. Though we come from different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives, we can and should come together in peace and purpose.
The Historic Peace Church in Hampden Township is a beautiful reminder of this. Built in 1798 by a Reformed congregation, it was shared “in peace” with a Lutheran congregation for their services. Beyond its historical significance, it stands as a testament to how people can find common ground.
Our Future.
What I love most about America is our promising future. We have confronted and overcome sins of our past, including slavery, as we continue striving toward a more perfect union—never perfect, but always improving.
I am optimistic because of our strong foundation, the ingenuity of the next generation, and the pride on display during this semiquincentennial year. Even amidst overstated divisions, America’s best days are ahead. I am confident that we will continue to be a beacon of freedom to the world, and that our community will continue to raise generous, kind, brave Americans.
Our region, with its deep Revolutionary roots and enduring patriotic spirit, remains a place where history and hope meet. The landmarks and stories around us remind us of the courage, sacrifice, and determination that built this nation. The history is ours—as is the future. Let’s celebrate together.
Greg Rothman is a member of the America250PA Commission and represents Cumberland, Perry and Dauphin counties in the State Senate.