People stand near the Statue of Liberty on Liberty Island after it reopened in New York City yesterday following closure since Hurricane Sandy badly damaged its surrounding infrastructure. In an Independence Day message, US President Barack Obama thanked members of the American military both at home and serving abroad. “People in scattered corners of the world are living in peace today, free to write their own futures, because of you. We are grateful for your service and your sacrifice, especially those still serving in harm’s way, and (for) your families here at home,” he said.
