[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 51 (Friday, March 23, 2007)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E626]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   TRIBUTE TO GREEK INDEPENDENCE DAY

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. CHRIS VAN HOLLEN

                              of maryland

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, March 23, 2007

  Mr. VAN HOLLEN. Madam Speaker, I am honored to rise today and join 
the millions of my fellow Americans in commemorating Greek Independence 
Day which, on March 25th celebrates the 186th anniversary of the 
rebellion and the struggle of the Greek people against the Ottoman 
Empire.
  Thomas Jefferson referred to ancient Greece as the ``light which led 
ourselves out of Gothic darkness.'' What makes Greek Independence Day 
so special here in America is that it reminds us of the strong 
principles and bonds that the U.S. and Greece share. In looking into 
the struggles of our two nations, we realize how much our struggles 
have in common, and how much each country has been influenced by the 
other.
  Greece and the United States are bound by an absolute commitment to 
the democratic ideals of justice and freedom and continue to be strong 
allies. By commemorating Greek Independence Day, we also celebrate the 
strength and the resolve of the human spirit that has been the 
inspiration of us all.
  On the occasion of the anniversary of Greek independence, I join all 
Americans in wishing the people of Greece congratulations and best 
wishes. We will remain eternally grateful to the Greek people and the 
legacy of ancient Greece for the shining example it set for democracies 
the world over.

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