Dear Colleagues,

In the near future, I intend to introduce a resolution commemorating Pennsylvania's extraordinary contributions to the American struggle for independence during 1776, the 250th anniversary of our nation's founding.

Pennsylvania stood at the very center of the events that gave birth to the United States of America. On July 4, 1776, the Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence in Philadelphia, proclaiming the thirteen colonies' separation from Great Britain and affirming the enduring principles of liberty, equality, and government by the consent of the governed.

Yet the declaration of independence was only the beginning. By December 1776, the American cause faced one of its darkest moments. Following a series of military defeats, General George Washington and his exhausted Continental Army retreated across New Jersey and regrouped along the Pennsylvania side of the Delaware River. Enlistments were expiring, supplies were scarce, morale had deteriorated, and the survival of the Revolution hung in the balance.

Against these daunting circumstances, Washington and his soldiers demonstrated extraordinary courage, determination, and perseverance. On Christmas night, December 25–26, 1776, the Continental Army crossed the icy Delaware River from Pennsylvania and launched a daring surprise attack against Hessian forces at Trenton, securing a decisive victory on December 26.

That remarkable achievement was followed by additional American successes at the Second Battle of Trenton on January 2, 1777, and the Battle of Princeton on January 3. Together, these engagements, remembered as the Ten Crucial Days, restored American morale, renewed confidence in Washington's leadership, and helped preserve the cause of independence at a moment when its survival was far from certain.

Pennsylvania's contributions extended far beyond any single battlefield or historic landmark. From the deliberations of the Continental Congress in Philadelphia to the communities that sheltered, supplied, and supported Washington's army, Pennsylvanians played an indispensable role in sustaining the struggle for liberty.

This resolution will recognize the courage, faith, sacrifice, and perseverance of the founding generation while honoring Pennsylvania's central place in the establishment and preservation of American independence. It will also encourage Pennsylvanians to reflect upon the extraordinary challenges faced by our forebears and the enduring responsibilities that accompany the freedoms they secured.

As we commemorate America's 250th anniversary, it is especially fitting that the Pennsylvania Senate recognize not only the ideals proclaimed in Philadelphia during the summer of 1776, but also the remarkable determination required to defend those ideals during the desperate winter that followed.

I respectfully invite my colleagues to join me in commemorating Pennsylvania's essential contributions to our nation's founding and honoring the men and women whose courage and sacrifices helped secure the blessings of liberty for future generations.

Thank you for your consideration and support.

Senator Doug Mastriano
33rd Senatorial District
Pennsylvania Senate