On July 4th, the United States will celebrate the Declaration of Independence from Great Britain, and the many service members that gave their lives over the past 240 years.

American Legion Post 89 Commander Don DeKock served in the Navy from 1971 to 1977, and fondly recalls his days deployed on ships during that time. DeKock says the American Legion helps teach young people about veteran’s and their service, and aims to help those students better appreciate what service means.

Listen for more about the Spirit of America all this week on In Depth with Dr. Bob Leonard.