Uploaded July 2026 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago

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Celebrate the 4th of July with the National Archives! For over 50 years, the Archives has celebrated American independence with a patriotic celebration that includes a ceremonial reading of the Declaration of Independence.

2026 Ceremony Overview:

Greetings
Patrick M. Madden
Chief Executive Officer
National Archives Foundation

Presentation of Colors
Space Force Color Guard

Performance
U.S. Army 3rd Infantry Old Guard
Fife and Drum Corps

National Anthem
Master Sergeant Caleb Green
U.S. Army (Ret.)

Declaration of Independence Reading
Abigail Adams, John Adams, James Forten, Benjamin Franklin, John Hancock, Ned Hector, Thomas Jefferson, and George Washington

America the Beautiful
Master Sergeant Caleb Green
U.S. Army (Ret.)