This Year, July 4th Falls on a Friday — And That Hits Different

This year, Independence Day lands on a Friday – a day many of us know as R.E.D. Friday, a day to Remember Everyone Deployed. And for thousands of military families like mine, that reminder carries a weight that’s both personal and profound.

Yes, July 4th is a day of pride, of fireworks, of cookouts, and of celebrating the birth of our nation. But when your spouse is deployed – again – that sense of celebration shifts. The pride? Still there. The respect? Stronger than ever. But the joy? It can feel a little more complicated.

R.E.D. Friday isn’t just about wearing red for fun – it’s a commitment. A quiet, powerful statement we make every single week to honor those serving overseas. It began as a simple way for Americans to show support for the men and women who can’t be home with their families. While many of us wear red on Fridays all year long, having R.E.D. Friday fall on July 4th feels especially significant. It’s a collision of celebration and sacrifice.

This year, our family joins countless others who will spend the holiday with a piece of our heart thousands of miles away. The flags waving and fireworks popping hit a little harder when you know someone is living the reality of service, sacrifice, and separation right now.

And then there’s the other side – the one that doesn’t always get talked about.

The veterans who have returned, carrying memories and scars we can’t see, often find fireworks and loud celebrations more triggering than thrilling. What brings joy to many can bring anxiety or flashbacks to others. Crowds, chaos, and unexpected booms can take the spirit out of the holiday for those who’ve already given more than enough.

And let’s be honest – sometimes, the people who go a bit too hard with the fireworks, the drinking, and the late-night antics forget that this holiday is not just about freedom to party. It’s about remembering why we have that freedom – and who’s out there defending it right now.

In our house, we keep it simple.
Small get-togethers. Family time. Hopefully not hellish heat.
As a homeschooling mom, I do my best to teach the significance of the holiday – why we honor it, what it means, who it’s for. But let’s be real – water balloons and popsicles tend to steal the spotlight. Go figure.

Still, the message is there.
And the hope is that one day, when they’re older, they’ll understand why we wore red, why we waved the flag with a little more emotion, and why sometimes, July 4th felt just a little different.

So this year, whether you’re celebrating big or small, take a moment to wear red.
Think of the families holding down the fort.
Think of the soldiers still in uniform.
And remember that freedom isn’t just a party.
It’s a promise, paid for by people who often can’t be here to celebrate it.

Remember Everyone Deployed.
Honor those who served.
Celebrate with gratitude.
Happy Independence Day. ❤️🤍💙