250 years ago, 56 brave men signed their “lives,” their “fortunes,” and their “sacred honor” to the Declaration of Independence.   That solemn pledge was not simply mere words. To bring about a free, independent nation, our forefathers were willing to face execution as traitors to the British empire, have their property confiscated, and their names and reputations besmirched on the world stage.   These men were willing to give the last great measure of devotion to ensure that a nation of laws—not men—could flourish. They did, and they were successful beyond what anyone thought possible.   Today, we celebrate and reflect on the outstanding vision our founding fathers had for our great nation, and the generations of patriots who have carried it on with great spirit for two and a half centuries.   Happy #America250#, Tennessee!