With Independence Day celebrations taking place this week, The Telegraph asked: "What does being an American mean to you?"

 

Patrick O’Leary

“I defended this country in Vietnam so that I could vote for issues that I believe in, against those that I don’t.”

 

Steve Ulery

“It means having the freedom to do what you want.”

 

David Dye

“A whole bunch!”

 

Steve Kerchee

 

“Cold beer, cheeseburgers and Jimmy Buffet.”


 

Debra Wells

“Freedom of choice.”