Editor’s note: This audio recording of Bruce Springsteen reading his foreword to the 40th anniversary edition of Kovic’s classic book “Born on the Fourth of July” was first posted on Truthdig on June 30, 2016, and is reposted here in commemoration of Kovic’s birthday. The introductory comment below has been condensed from the original.

If you aren’t familiar with the work of war veteran and peace activist Ron Kovic, now is your chance to get acquainted.

In anticipation of the upcoming release of his new book, “Hurricane Street,” Truthdig takes a look back at Kovic’s classic “Born on the Fourth of July.” Below, you can listen to Bruce Springsteen read the foreword he wrote for the 40th anniversary edition, as well as hear the first chapter of the book narrated by Holter Graham. The audiobook version of this edition will be available exclusively at Audible starting July Fourth [2016].

40th anniversary edition foreword, written and narrated by Bruce Springsteen:

“Born on the Fourth of July,” Chapter 1, narrated by Holter Graham:

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