Manama, Bahrain - Thank you, very much. And thank you to everyone for being here. Before I begin, I want to thank our gracious hosts: His Majesty King Hamad, His Royal Highness Prince Salman, and His Excellency Sheikh Salman. I want to thank the Kingdom of Bahrain and the people of Bahrain for being such gracious hosts.

Washington, DC - Two hundred forty-three years ago today, our Founding Fathers, gathered in Philadelphia, adopted the Declaration of Independence and cast off the shackles of tyranny.  They boldly proclaimed the inherent truth that each individual has unalienable rights that come from our Creator, and that among them are the rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.  As we celebrate these rights upon which our Nation was built, we also recognize the courageous men and women of our Armed Forces who have valiantly defended them.

Washington, DC - On behalf of the people of the United States of America, I congratulate interim President Juan Guaido, the National Assembly, and the people of Venezuela as you celebrate the anniversary of your independence.

Sacramento, California - Governor Gavin Newsom today issued a proclamation declaring July 4, 2019, as Independence Day in the State of California.

Ridgecrest, California - Governor Gavin Newsom today issued an emergency proclamation due to the effects of a 6.4 magnitude earthquake near Ridgecrest in Kern County and continued aftershocks that have damaged critical infrastructure, homes and other structures and caused fires.

Guam - For many Sailors in the Navy, ranking up to the next pay grade is a goal to strive for. Some are fortunate enough to achieve it within a few tries, but for others it can take some time. In the case of Senior Chief Quartermaster Kevin Oliver, aboard the Harpers Ferry-class amphibious dock landing ship USS Harpers Ferry (LSD 49), it took 11 years of hard work, dedication and patience.