[img_assist|nid=2776|title=Andy Harris|desc=Campaign Photo|link=none|align=left|width=173|height=205]This Independence Day, First district Republican nominee and state Sen. Andy Harris (R-Cockeysville) offered up his thoughts on the greatness of America, evidenced by his family’s journey to freedom.

Evoking Ronald Reagan’s comparison of the United States to “a shining city upon a hill whose beacon light guides freedom-loving people everywhere," Harris asks citizens to remember “our nation's unparalleled freedom and opportunity for its citizens.”

“The United States has always shone as a beacon of hope and continues to do so today,” he said. “Our nation was founded by and continues to thrive on the hard work, dedication and faith of those who saw America as a land of opportunity for all, regardless of status, wealth or nationality.”

As an example, Harris points to his own parents, “who immigrated to the United States to flee Communism with nothing but the hope of a better life for themselves and their children.”

“By legally becoming American citizens and embracing the values and work ethic of the U.S. they succeeded.”

And the result of their dream?

“Now here I am an anesthesiologist, husband and father of five, US Navy veteran, state senator and my party's nominee for the United States Congress.”

“God Bless America."