As families across the state gather on this Independence Day to observe the founding of our nation’s freedom with family picnics, fireworks, and other special events, may we all remember those who have fought and are still fighting for our freedom. We have much to be proud of in Tennessee regarding our state’s rich heritage in fighting for the precious rights we all enjoy as Americans.

As we look back to our nation’s first struggles in the American Revolution, even before Tennessee became a state, our ancestors had already begun to bravely answer the call of freedom. It started at Kings Mounta...