[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 42 (Monday, March 25, 1996)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E445]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         GREEK INDEPENDENCE DAY

                                 ______


                               speech of

                       HON. JOSEPH P. KENNEDY II

                            of massachusetts

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, March 20, 1996

  Mr. KENNEDY of Massachusetts. Mr. Speaker, freedom-loving people all 
over the world join in the celebration of the 175th anniversary of the 
beginning of the Greek War of Independence.
  On March 25, 1821, a group of heroic Greeks proved that the ancient 
fire of freedom and democracy--which inspired the founders of our 
country--had not been extinguished by over 400 years of brutal Ottoman 
rule.
  More than 2,000 years ago, democracy was born in Greece. Political 
power in the hands of the people governed had never been seen before. 
That system of governance provided the inspiration for nations around 
the world.
  The country that emerged from the Ottoman yoke has been a staunch 
ally and friend. Greece has stood by the United States in every major 
international conflict this century.
  Our country has benefited from an active and successful Greek-
American community. The immigrants who came to our shores from Greece 
worked hard. Their children went on to become scholars, doctors, 
scientists--many individuals from that community have served our 
country with distinction in the Armed Forces and Government.
  Soon the Olympic flame will reach the United States, where it will 
preside over the Olympic Games as a reminder of the Hellenic ideals 
that inspire athletes, philosophers, and democratic movements 
throughout the world.
  Mr. Speaker, I am proud to recognize this important date in the long 
struggle for freedom and democracy. Greece's victory over tyranny is a 
victory for democracy and freedom all over the globe.

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