[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 48 (Tuesday, March 25, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E563]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         HONORING 182 YEARS OF FREEDOM AND DEMOCRACY IN GREECE

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                         HON. MICHAEL F. DOYLE

                            of pennsylvania

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, March 25, 2003

  Mr. DOYLE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor one of America's greatest 
allies and inspiration for our freedom, liberty, and most importantly, 
our democratic system of government--Greece.
  Today marks the 182nd anniversary of Greek independence. Greek-
Americans in my district of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and throughout the 
United States will celebrate this milestone and continue their rich 
tradition of philanthropy, civic duty, and education. Indeed, there are 
more than 3 million Greek-Americans in our country providing America 
with professors, engineers, scientists, artists, athletes, and 
politicians. Greek culture and heritage touch nearly every aspect of 
American life.
  Greek Independence Day marks the revival of democracy in the place 
that gave birth to its principles, and many of the political, artistic 
and social innovations of Greece were the source of some of America's 
greatest treasures, including the rugged individualism described in 
Homer's poetry or the political philosophies of Aristotle.
  In these days of war and terrorism, Greece remains a steadfast and 
stable ally of the United States in a region of the world that is 
marked by turbulence and violence. Following the attacks on America on 
September 11th, Greece was one of the very first countries to express 
solidarity with the United States. Since this time, Greece has made 
outstanding contributions to the global war against terrorism, 
including military support for Operation Enduring Freedom, humanitarian 
assistance for Afghanistan, and participation in the International 
Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan.
  My Speaker, Greek-Americans should be proud of their rich and long 
heritage of service to their fellow humans, both domestically and 
abroad. I strongly applaud Greek-American commitment to family, 
community, and America, and hope all Americans join with Greece and her 
sons and daughters to celebrate 182 years of freedom, democracy, and 
friendship.

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