Vindman Statement on America’s 250th Anniversary of Independence

Vindman: "Only in America can someone arrive as a refugee and, within a single lifetime, serve in the United States Congress. That is the American Dream, and it is why I love this country and believe it remains the greatest nation in the world."

Washington, D.C. - Congressman Eugene Vindman (Va.-07) today released the following statement on the United States of America's 250th anniversary of independence.

"As we celebrate the 250th anniversary of American independence, I've been reflecting on what this country has meant to me and my family.

"When I was four years old, my family came to the United States as refugees from Soviet Ukraine. My father had the opportunity to start over in many different countries, but he chose America because he believed this nation offered something no other place could: the chance that if you worked hard and played by the rules, your children could build a better life than you had. He was right.

"I spent 25 years serving in the United States Army because I wanted to give something back to the country that welcomed us. Today, I have the privilege of continuing that service in Congress, where I represent more than 72,000 veterans.

"Only in America can someone arrive as a refugee and, within a single lifetime, serve in the United States Congress. That is the American Dream, and it is why I love this country and believe it remains the greatest nation in the world.

"But the American Dream is not something we can take for granted. Every generation has a responsibility to strengthen it for the next.

"That's why my mission in Congress is straightforward: lower costs for working families, expand opportunity, root out corruption, and make sure our children inherit an even brighter future than the one we did. I believe the promise of America is still alive in communities across Virginia and throughout our country, and it's our responsibility to protect it.

"As we mark 250 years of our nation's history, we should recommit ourselves to the ideals that have always made America exceptional and continue striving to build a more perfect union. If we do, I have no doubt that America's best days are still ahead - and that the next 250 years will be even stronger than the first."

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