As I was preparing to send an Independence Day Greeting, I learned of the death of Senator Jesse Helms.

 

While I feel an enormous sense of personal loss in the passing of such a great North Carolinian and true American Patriot, my immediate thoughts of sympathy and prayers go out to Mrs. Helms and the Helms family.

 

I can not help but think how appropriate that this great American would fall on Independence Day-America’s 232^nd birthday.

 

To me, Senator Helms spent his life and career fighting to preserve for the very freedom and opportunity that is America. 

 

I am so very proud and honored to have known Senator Helms and value and appreciate his dedication and devotion to America.

 

America, the conservative movement, and the Republican Party are so much richer for the sacrifices of Senator and Mrs. Helms.

 

May God give all us the strength to carry on the tradition of service and the dedication to preserving freedom for which Senator Helms lived.