It was a beautiful sunny day with a clear skyand cool breeze. Members of the Sikh community
of Dayton gathered to celebrate Independence Day.
Dayton, Ohio, USA. July 4, 2011: The 4th of July is an important day in the American calendar. This is the national holiday of the United States of America commemorating the signing of the Declaration of Independence by the Continental Congress on July 4, 1776, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. This is a time for the Red, White and Blue to be flown high in the sky.
The Sikhs of Dayton joined in the celebration with enthusiasm and vigor. The flag hoisting ceremony (above) was performed by Victor Zimmer, the Color Guard of ROTC from the Wright State University Engineering Department, followed by the National Anthem and the Oath of Allegiance. On behalf of the Sikh community of Dayton, Dr. Raj Cheema welcomed Mr. Bill Flaute, Mayor of Riverside, who had come to preside over the event. He said that independence is very important for all but does not come without any struggle. He praised the brave soldiers fighting for our country and world peace and he prayed for their safe return. The honorable mayor Mr. Floute said that he was impressed with the support and solidarity shown by the Sikh community in organizing this event.
As a token of appreciation the mayor was presented (above) a book called "The Sikhs." Mr. Zimmer was presented a book named "The Golden Temple" as a sign of gratitude for his contribution. Concluding this unique birthday ceremony, Dr. Rajkamaljit Singh Cheema thanked the guests for gracing the occasion with their presence. As James G. Blaine is known to have said, "The United States is the only country with a known birthday."
Mayor Bill Flaute and Victor Zimmer with members of the Sikh Community during book presentation ceremony
Darshan Singh Sehbi
Dayton, Ohio.