Independence Day Reflections: Humor, Valor, and Faith

June 30, 2025

Independence Day is a time for celebration, reflection and a bit of humor. Here are some amusing anecdotes from veterans and civilians alike that capture the lighter side of military life.

Marian Babula, Penn Run, Pennsylvania, recalls interviewing his father, a World War II veteran who served in the Philippines. After basic questions, the teenager cautiously asked, “Did you ever kill anyone?” His father grew quiet, then softly replied, “Probably. I was the cook.”

Comedian Dick Gregory shared a memory of losing his rifle, for which the Army charged him $85. He quipped, “That’s why in the Navy, the captain goes down with the ship.”

SMSgt. Dan Powell, on rallypoint.com, described when his unit was inspecting grenades. He found a spare grenade pin, held it up, and asked, “Has anyone seen my grenade?”

Joanne Korman from Bedford, Nova Scotia, recounted a soldier’s MRI at her clinic. A young technician placed him in the machine. She finished her shift and an older woman helped him out an hour later. Confused, he asked, “How long was I in there for?”

Independence Day sermons are among my favorites to write, offering a chance to explore the remarkable faith of our Founding Fathers. Contrary to the belief that Ben Franklin was an atheist or agnostic, he played a pivotal role in embedding prayer into our nation’s governance. During the Constitutional Convention of 1787, when delegates were divided and the nation’s future hung in the balance, Franklin quoted Psalm 127:1, “Unless the LORD builds the house, the builders labor in vain. Unless the LORD watches over the city, the guards stand watch in vain.” His speech urged delegates to seek divine guidance, reminding them of God’s providence in securing victory against the world’s greatest army and navy. This led to the tradition of opening congressional sessions with prayer.

I found this list of quotes from the “Last Will and Testament” of numerous Founding Fathers. These quotes vividly expressed their faith in God. I hope that in sharing them it will inspire your Independence Day celebrations.

I start with Samuel Adams, Father of the American Revolution and signer of the Declaration of Independence who wrote, “I … recommend my Soul to that Almighty Being who gave it, and my body I commit to the dust, relying upon the merits of Jesus Christ for a pardon of all my sins.”

John Dickinson, signer of the Constitution, wrote, “Rendering thanks to my Creator for my existence and station among His works, for my birth in a country enlightened by the Gospel and enjoying freedom, and for all His other kindnesses, to Him I resign myself, humbly confiding in His goodness and in His mercy through Jesus Christ for the events of eternity.”

John Hancock, signer of the Declaration of Independence, “Principally and first of all, I give and recommend my soul into the hands of God that gave it: and my body I recommend to the earth … nothing doubting but at the general resurrection I shall receive the same again by the mercy and power of God.”

Patrick Henry, Governor of Virginia and Patriot, wrote, “This is all the inheritance I can give to my dear family. The religion of Christ can give them one which will make them rich indeed.”

John Jay, first Chief Justice of the US Supreme Court, wrote, “Unto Him who is the author and giver of all good, I render sincere and humble thanks for His manifold and unmerited blessings, and especially for our redemption and salvation by His beloved son … Blessed be His holy name!”

Henry Knox, Revolutionary War General and Secretary of War, wrote, “First, I think it proper to express my unshaken opinion of the immortality of my soul or mind; and to dedicate and devote the same to the supreme head of the Universe … To this awfully sublime Being do I resign my spirit with unlimited confidence of His mercy and protection.”

Do you have a favorite quote from the men and women who helped this nation get started? I invite you to share it, and why it is meaningful to you, at your Independence Day celebration. Also, I offer this Call to Legacy. These quotes not only honor the faith of our Founding Fathers but also inspire us to reflect on our own beliefs. As you celebrate Independence Day, consider including a statement of faith in your Will, encouraging future generations to trust in God’s providence. Let us honor the sacrifices of those who built this nation by remembering the divine guidance they sought and received. (To learn more about Al Earley or read previous articles, see www.lagrangepres.org. You can purchase my book, My Faith Journal, at Amazon.com, a compilation of 366 articles as a daily devotional).