Americans who have given what Abraham Lincoln called “the last full measure of devotion” occupy a special place in our nation’s history.
As we commemorate America 250 by celebrating the birth of freedom represented by the Declaration of Independence, it is important to point out that not a single Founding Father believed either the Declaration or the Constitution (created in the decade following the American Revolution) guaranteed the perpetuation of a free society.
They all understood that creating a framework for a republican form of government was necessary but not sufficient to ensure the preservation of individual liberty. The American experiment would require hard work — and each generation of Americans would have to do its part when freedom was at risk.
No group has given more in service of this experiment than those who we honor on Memorial Day. Without their sacrifice, the preservation of a constitutional system would be impossible — and there would not be a celebration for America 250.
They fought the good fight, they finished the race, they kept the faith.
And we will be forever in their debt.
Every flag placed serves as a solemn reminder that freedom isn't free. 🇺🇸
The week before Memorial Day nearly 1,500 Soldiers plant flags in front of every tombstone in Arlington National Cemetery during the annual "Flags In" tradition.
📸 Elizabeth Fraser, Arlington National Cemetery
Did you know that while America was finding its footing in 1776, Florida’s citrus roots were already taking hold. Brought over by the Spanish explorers in the 1500s, oranges became a symbol of the Sunshine State’s resilience and growth! On National Orange Juice Day, we honor the generations of Florida farmers who turned oranges into an American breakfast staple. Cheers to the flavor of freedom! Learn more here: https://t.co/gmdgiUUMYW
@MuseumFLHistory@OJfromFlorida
#NationalOrangeJuiceDay
Florida is currently experiencing 131 active wildfires. Please keep your loved ones safe. Follow emergency response updates and evacuation orders. Monitor current wildfire conditions at https://t.co/aq0z5Kjvlh. 🍊🇺🇸
AI is moving fast, but that doesn’t mean we rush in without a plan. I’m calling for a moratorium on AI data centers to protect our data, our kids, and our communities.
Congressman Donalds wants Florida to lead in building them. I believe we need to take a step back and get this right.
Florida is not for sale.
Putting Florida first means protecting our communities and land. That’s why I’m calling for a moratorium on AI data centers.
✅Learn more and support our campaign at https://t.co/fcrAmTXiiX
Heaven ushered in a hero of the faith last night as my Dad was welcomed home!
Many will say sorry for your loss but the truth is he’s not lost, we know exactly where he is.
He’s home.
Forever!
I asked him last week what he looked forward to most about Heaven, and he simply said, “Jesus.”
He couldn’t wait to see Jesus face to face.
Praise God that his wait is over.
Death has been swallowed up in victory.
He’s healed and whole now.
So we don’t mourn as those with no hope.
See you soon Dad!
April marks Florida Water Conservation Month. Preserving our water resources is essential to FL’s future – especially with the hundreds of people who move here each day. I’m proud of the work our team in the Senate has done to restore & protect our water for future generations.
@1Loosey_goosey@HarrisonHSmith It’s like investment money is driving construction not demand for housing. Reminds me of the stories about overbuilding of housing in China.
On this day in 1984, Space Shuttle Challenger launched from Kennedy Space Center on a mission that would change space forever — the first-ever in-orbit satellite repair. Astronauts flew untethered through space using jet-powered backpacks to rescue the Solar Max satellite, proving that humans could fix things that broke… even 300 miles above Earth. Florida's spaceport made the impossible routine. #America250FL
@SpaceFlorida
History rocks! Or historical rocks rock! Something like that. 📷📷
Officially established in 1907, The Florida Geological Survey has been part of the state’s scientific backbone for well over a century. The agency was created to study the state’s natural resources, groundwater, minerals and unique geologic formations.
At the start, the program focused on mapping Florida’s geology, documenting fossils and advising the state on mineral resources, laying the foundation for modern environmental management.
Over time, its role expanded to include groundwater research, sinkhole investigations, coastal geology and public education about Florida’s dynamic landscape.
***
📸: Courtesy of Florida Memory, 1908
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@FLDEPNews
#TheRealFlorida #America250FL #LoveFL #HistoricEncounters #FloridaHeritage
I guess we shouldn’t be surprised that these protesters would invade a church service on Sunday, disrupting and trying to intimidate the congregation. They shouted, cursed, and hurled accusations at youth, children, and families. I find it ironic that they were fine with trampling and violating the rights of Christians who were in church to peacefully worship on Sunday—all while saying they are standing up for the rights of people who are breaking the law and are in this country illegally. The Minnesota-Wisconsin Baptist Convention was right in calling what happened “an unacceptable trauma.” The US Department of Justice has opened a civil rights investigation, and I hope that these violent intimidators will be brought to justice and that it will send a strong message. We must protect our religious liberty in America. Join me in praying for not only the pastors and congregation at this MN church, but for churches across the country to stand strong. And pray for the law enforcement officers trying to enforce the laws of this nation, that God would give them protection, courage, and strength.
https://t.co/7DKd5XNPAm
It was a huge honor for me to visit with Tiffany Baker, who heads up our Historic Capitol, for a sneak peak at the new interactive George Washington exhibit the Senate is sponsoring for America's 250! We're excited for the debut in Feb. Thanks Tiffany-you are highly valued!🇺🇸🍊
Great to be at Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville with First Lady @CaseyDeSantis today to announce the launch of the only carbon ion therapy program in the Western Hemisphere—a major milestone for cancer care in Florida and nationwide.
Our administration is committed to fighting cancer by making targeted investments in innovative therapies that have the potential to save lives. During my time as governor, we’ve increased funding for cancer research and treatment programs by more than 114 percent. The Casey DeSantis Cancer Research Program has strengthened Florida’s position as a national leader in cancer research and innovation.
We’re proud that Mayo Clinic chose Florida as the home for this groundbreaking initiative, and we look forward to seeing how these cutting-edge therapies give hope to patients fighting some of the most aggressive and treatment-resistant cancers.
Mayo Clinic’s doctors and researchers are on the front lines of Florida’s fight against cancer. Today, we were happy to announce that Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville will be launching the first carbon ion therapy program in America.
Carbon ion therapy, one of the most advanced forms of radiation treatment in the world, is designed to attack some of the most aggressive and treatment-resistant cancers. This cutting-edge treatment has the potential to save lives and give hope to those who need it most. Proton therapy will also be available in the same facility, allowing specialists to treat tumors with a higher degree of precision.
While carbon ion therapy was originally discovered in the United States decades ago, it has only been available at a limited number of centers in Asia and Europe until now. Soon, cancer patients will have access to therapies that previously required traveling across the world, right here in Florida.
Since 1636, the National Guard has remained Always Ready, Always There. Join us as we celebrate 389 years of dedicated commitment to answering our nation’s call! #Guard389