The Fourth of July: A Celebration of Freedom, Reflection, and Compassion
Every year on the Fourth of July, Americans come together to celebrate our nation's independence with vibrant displays of fireworks, backyard barbecues, music, laughter, and an overwhelming sense of national pride. It’s a holiday that speaks to freedom—but it should also call us to something deeper: reflection, gratitude, and compassion.
Because for some, the Fourth isn’t just about celebration. For many of our combat veterans, first responders, and trauma survivors, July 4th can be filled with emotional landmines—an unexpected reminder of battles still being fought long after the uniforms come off.
The True Meaning of the Fourth of July
The Fourth of July marks the adoption of the Declaration of Independence in 1776, a bold and revolutionary document that laid the foundation for liberty, self-governance, and the belief that all people are created equal. It was a declaration of values—of justice, resilience, and unity in the face of oppression.
But independence has never come without sacrifice.
Behind every firework lighting up the night sky is a legacy of those who have served. Behind every cookout and flag ceremony is the invisible weight carried by those who fought, and those who continue to fight, to keep those freedoms alive.
The Fourth of July isn’t just a party—it’s a promise. A promise to remember. To recognize that while we may celebrate freedom, some still live with its cost. For our combat veterans and first responders, the holiday is often less about celebration and more about survival.
PTSD Doesn’t Take a Holiday
Loud fireworks. Crowds. The smell of smoke. Sudden noises. For those living with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), these triggers can bring back moments of violence, terror, or trauma in vivid and overwhelming ways.
“PTSD doesn’t wait for a convenient moment. Fireworks may be fun for most people, but for those with combat-related trauma, they can sound like incoming fire,”
— Dennis Carradin, trauma therapist & founder of The Trauma Survivors Foundation.
According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs:
11–20% of Iraq and Afghanistan veterans experience PTSD each year.
12% of Gulf War veterans and nearly 30% of Vietnam veterans have lived with PTSD.
Among first responders, up to 30% experience PTSD or related symptoms during their careers.
These are not rare or fringe experiences—they are part of the everyday reality for those who have put themselves in harm’s way for the safety of others.
It’s not weakness. It’s not overreaction. It’s the human cost of trauma. And it’s our responsibility—as neighbors, friends, and fellow Americans—to recognize that and respond with empathy.
What Compassion Looks Like on July 4th
Compassion doesn’t require grand gestures. Sometimes, it looks like simple choices that acknowledge the unseen struggles of those around us:
Ask before lighting fireworks. Let your neighbors—especially veterans or first responders—know ahead of time if you plan to set off fireworks.
Offer a quiet place. Invite those who may be triggered to a calm, controlled celebration away from noise and chaos.
Check in. A phone call, text, or invite can be an emotional lifeline.
Support local organizations that provide mental health services to veterans and first responders.
As Carradin says,
“Compassion is patriotic. Being mindful of how your celebration affects others isn’t about taking away joy—it’s about making space for everyone to feel safe.”
Staying Physically Safe: Don’t Let the Celebration Turn Tragic
Alongside emotional safety, physical safety should remain a priority. The Fourth of July is consistently ranked one of the most dangerous U.S. holidays for injuries related to fireworks, alcohol, and heat-related emergencies.
Fireworks Safety
Use only legal, consumer-grade fireworks.
Keep fireworks away from children.
Light one at a time—and back up quickly.
Keep water nearby and never try to relight a dud.
Dispose of fireworks properly once they cool.
Alcohol Awareness
Designate a sober driver before the drinks start flowing.
Encourage moderation and monitor heat exposure.
Keep non-alcoholic options available.
Stay alert and look out for impaired guests.
First Aid and Emergency Prep
Have a stocked first aid kit readily available.
Know the signs of heatstroke, burns, or alcohol poisoning.
Don’t hesitate to call 911 if someone’s in distress.
Remember: a safe celebration is a successful celebration.
This Fourth of July: Celebrate All of Our Freedoms
This year, as you wave your flags and fire up the grill, take a moment to reflect—not just on our nation’s independence, but on the people who protect it daily.
Remember:
Freedom isn’t free. It is paid for in sweat, blood, and unspoken pain.
Not all wounds are visible. Some are carried silently for years.
You can celebrate with joy and still honor those who cannot.
Let this holiday be more than a party. Let it be a reminder—to be aware, to be grateful, and to be kind. Let’s honor the promise of the Fourth of July by lifting one another up, respecting each other’s realities, and celebrating a freedom that includes compassion, safety, and healing for all.
From all of us at The Trauma Survivors Foundation:
Happy Independence Day. Stay safe. Stay kind. Stay connected.
