 A picture is worth a thousand words and some images are powerful enough to move millions to action without requiring a word to be uttered. The U.S. flag, a majestic bald eagle, or the iconic painting of George Washington crossing the Delaware, evoke a strong sense of national pride among Americans at home and abroad. These timeless symbols of freedom and democracy will be on grand display as we celebrate our nation's 245th birthday on Independence Day. Another symbol of resilience, strength, and patriotism is in the Army Reserve crest, which depicts the image of Captain John Parker. Captain Parker, who commanded the Lexington militia, played a key role in the birth of our nation during its first battle of the Revolutionary War by mobilizing the Minutemen of Lexington, Massachusetts, to the intercept British soldiers marching to Concord to search for the hidden supplies and weapons. A farmer and a mechanic by trade, he took up arms at dawn on April 19th, 1775 and ordered his company of 70 volunteers to stand their ground on Lexington Battle Green, otherwise known as the Lexington Common. A battle ensued, ending the lives of eight American heroes and marking the beginning of our struggle for independence. Captain Parker's bravery and initiative epitomizes the spirit of the citizen soldier, one of the reasons his likeness was incorporated into the official Army Reserve symbol of 1922. As we celebrate Independence Day with friends and loved ones, I ask that you reflect on the symbolism that fireworks displays, our nation's flag, and John Parker represent to our fellow citizen soldiers, their families, and the millions of men and women around the world who support our armed forces, veterans, and fallen heroes. Happy Birthday America!