[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 41 (Tuesday, March 11, 2008)]
[House]
[Pages H1463-H1467]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  RECOGNIZING THE 187TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE INDEPENDENCE OF GREECE AND 
                CELEBRATING GREEK AND AMERICAN DEMOCRACY

  Mr. CROWLEY. Madam Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and agree to 
the resolution (H. Res. 1024) recognizing the 187th anniversary of the 
independence of Greece and celebrating Greek and American democracy, as 
amended.
  The Clerk read the title of the resolution.
  The text of the resolution is as follows:

                              H. Res. 1024

       Whereas the ancient Greeks developed the concept of 
     democracy, in which the supreme power to govern was vested in 
     the people;
       Whereas the Founding Fathers of the United States drew 
     heavily on the political experience and philosophy of ancient 
     Greece in forming our representative democracy;
       Whereas Greek Commander in Chief Petros Mavromichalis, a 
     founder of the modern Greek state, said to the citizens of 
     the United States in 1821 that ``it is in your land that 
     liberty has fixed her abode and . . . in imitating you, we 
     shall imitate our ancestors and be thought worthy of them if 
     we succeed in resembling you'';
       Whereas Greece played a major role in the World War II 
     struggle to protect freedom and democracy through such 
     bravery as was shown in the historic Battle of Crete, which 
     provided the Axis land war with its first major setback, 
     setting off a chain of events that significantly affected the 
     outcome of World War II;
       Whereas the price for Greece in holding onto our common 
     values in their region was high, as hundreds of thousands of 
     civilians were killed in Greece during World War II;
       Whereas throughout the 20th century, Greece was one of a 
     few countries that allied with the United States in every 
     major international conflict;
       Whereas President George W. Bush, in recognizing Greek 
     Independence Day, said, ``Greece and America have been firm 
     allies in the great struggles for liberty. Americans will 
     always remember Greek heroism and Greek sacrifice for the 
     sake of freedom . . . [and] as the 21st Century dawns, Greece 
     and America once again stand united; this time in the fight 
     against terrorism. The United States deeply appreciates the 
     role Greece is playing in the war against terror. . . . 
     America and Greece are strong allies, and we're strategic 
     partners.'';

[[Page H1464]]

       Whereas President Bush stated that Greece's successful 
     ``law enforcement operations against a terrorist organization 
     [November 17] responsible for three decades of terrorist 
     attacks underscore the important contributions Greece is 
     making to the global war on terrorism'';
       Whereas Greece is a strategic partner and ally of the 
     United States in bringing political stability and economic 
     development to the volatile Balkan region, having invested 
     over $20 billion in the countries of the region, thereby 
     creating over 200,000 new jobs, and having contributed over 
     $750 million in development aid for the region;
       Whereas Greece was extraordinarily responsive to requests 
     by the United States during the war in Iraq, as Greece 
     immediately granted unlimited access to its airspace and the 
     base in Souda Bay, and many ships of the United States that 
     delivered troops, cargo, and supplies to Iraq were refueled 
     in Greece;
       Whereas Greece is a top contributor to the defense efforts 
     of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), spending an 
     estimated 3 percent of its gross domestic product on defense, 
     and is also an active participant in peacekeeping and peace-
     building operations conducted by international organizations, 
     including the United Nations, NATO, the European Union (EU), 
     and the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe 
     (OSCE);
       Whereas in August 2004, the Olympic games came home to 
     Athens, Greece, the land of their ancient birthplace 2,500 
     years ago and the city of their modern revival in 1896;
       Whereas Greece received worldwide praise for its 
     extraordinary handling during the 2004 Olympics of over 
     14,000 athletes from 202 countries and over 2 million 
     spectators and journalists, which it did efficiently, 
     securely, and with its famous Greek hospitality;
       Whereas the unprecedented security effort in Greece for the 
     first summer Olympics after the attacks on the United States 
     on September 11, 2001, included a record-setting expenditure 
     of over $1,390,000,000 and assignment of over 70,000 security 
     personnel, as well as the utilization of an eight-country 
     Olympic Security Advisory Group that included the United 
     States;
       Whereas Greece, located in a region where Christianity 
     meets Islam and Judaism, maintains excellent relations with 
     Muslim nations and Israel;
       Whereas the Government of Greece has had extraordinary 
     success in recent years in furthering cross-cultural 
     understanding and reducing tensions between Greece and 
     Turkey, as seen most recently with the January 2008 visit to 
     Turkey by Greece's Prime Minister Kostas Karamanlis, the 
     first official visit by a Greek Prime Minister in 49 years;
       Whereas Greece and the United States are at the forefront 
     of the effort for freedom, democracy, peace, stability, and 
     human rights;
       Whereas those and similar ideals have forged a close bond 
     between Greece and the United States and their peoples;
       Whereas March 25, 2008, Greek Independence Day, marks the 
     187th anniversary of the beginning of the revolution that 
     freed the Greek people from the Ottoman Empire; and
       Whereas it is proper and desirable for the United States to 
     celebrate this anniversary with the Greek people and to 
     reaffirm the democratic principles from which these two great 
     nations were born: Now, therefore, be it
       Resolved, That the House of Representatives--
       (1) extends warm congratulations and best wishes to the 
     people of Greece as they celebrate the 187th anniversary of 
     the independence of Greece;
       (2) expresses support for the principles of democratic 
     governance to which the people of Greece are committed; and
       (3) notes the important role that Greece has played in the 
     wider European region and in the community of nations since 
     gaining its independence 187 years ago.

  The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursuant to the rule, the gentleman from New 
York (Mr. Crowley) and the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Manzullo) each 
will control 20 minutes.
  The Chair recognizes the gentleman from New York.


                             General Leave

  Mr. CROWLEY. Madam Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members 
may have 5 legislative days to revise and extend their remarks and 
include extraneous material on the resolution under consideration.
  The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there objection to the request of the 
gentleman from New York?
  There was no objection.

                              {time}  1430

  Mr. CROWLEY. Madam Speaker, I rise in strong support of this 
resolution, and yield myself such time as may consume.
  Madam Speaker, I am delighted to support this resolution marking the 
187th anniversary of Greek independence, and I would like to thank my 
good friend and ranking member of the Foreign Affairs Committee, 
Representative Ros-Lehtinen, for her leadership in ensuring that the 
House mark this important date. The world owes the Greeks a debt of 
gratitude for having developed the concept of democracy, which has 
enabled so much of the world to live in peaceful prosperity.
  The story of Greek independence remains a remarkable tale about the 
revival of an ancient and great people through deep commitment, 
personal sacrifice, and an abiding love of freedom. Indeed, Western 
Civilization is deeply indebted to the Greek nation for its immense 
contributions in the fields of science, medicine, philosophy and art, 
just to name a few.
  In 2004, the world celebrated this rich history and heritage as the 
Summer Olympics came home to Greece. This beautiful Mediterranean 
country showcased the best of its culture and hospitality.
  In modern times, Greece has remained one of the United States' most 
important and enduring allies. Greece is one of the relatively few 
nations that stood shoulder-to-shoulder with the United States in every 
major war of the 20th century. The close links between our countries 
increased after World War II as the Truman Doctrine helped save Greece 
from communism, while the Marshall Plan aided its economic 
regeneration.
  When Greece joined NATO in 1952, it formalized the deep mutual 
commitment that it shared with the Western world to safeguard freedom. 
After becoming a member of the European Union in 1981, Greece further 
deepened its relations with its European neighbors. It also underwent a 
notable economic transformation with the exchange of the drachma for 
the euro in 2002, highlighting its economic prosperity.
  Greece has remained a strategic partner in the post-Cold War world, 
notably helping to promote peace and stability in the Balkans. The 
January 2008 visit by Greece Prime Minister Kostas Karamanlis to 
Turkey, the first such official visit in 49 years, was a welcome 
development in these countries' efforts to resolve their differences.
  Since the tragic attacks on the United States on 9/11, Greece has 
remained a steadfast ally in the fight against violent extremism. 
Plagued for many years by domestic acts of terror, Greece knows only 
too well the financial, mental, and physical toll that terrorism can 
wreak on a nation.
  In closing, it is also important to highlight the rich contributions 
that Greek immigrants and their descendants have made to the United 
States; I know this firsthand, representing a great number in the 
County of Queens, New York. For over a century, they have traveled 
across the ocean, bringing their success to our shores, and in doing so 
serving as a bridge between our two nations. Today, some 5 million 
Americans claim Greek ancestry. We are grateful for the wisdom, energy, 
and talent they continue to bestow upon our great Nation.
  Madam Speaker, I congratulate the Greek people on the 187th 
anniversary of their independence from Ottoman rule. I ask my 
colleagues to join me in congratulating them on their tremendous 
contributions to world civilization and in celebrating the enduring 
Greek-American friendship.
  Madam Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.
  Mr. MANZULLO. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may 
consume.
  I rise in support of House Resolution 1024. The Republic of Greece is 
an important friend and ally of the United States. The links between 
Greece and the United States involve political philosophy, values, a 
concrete alliance, and important actions. Greece is the birthplace of 
Western Civilization and modern democracy, and it is from Greece that 
our Founding Fathers drew so many important principles of government, 
law, and freedom. Today, our two nations continue to share the values 
that we hold dear: liberty, freedom, and democracy.
  Greece and the United States have also stood together resolutely 
throughout difficult times during the last century, particularly during 
the Second World War. Greece, in fact, is one of the few nations that 
has supported America in every major conflict over the past century.
  After the end of World War II, Greece joined in a formal alliance 
with the United States, through NATO, and went on to broaden its 
commitment to

[[Page H1465]]

democracy, freedom, and human rights through its notable contributions 
to international peacekeeping and stability missions.
  Today, as America faces a complex array of threats posed by extremism 
around the world, Greece indeed remains a valuable strategic partner. 
Most notably, Greece provided access to its airspace for American 
military aircraft en route to Iraq and allowed our U.S. Navy ships to 
refuel in its ports.
  Through its substantial economic investment and aid to the Balkans, 
Greece has also sought to play an important role as an agent of 
stability in that important region, supplementing the efforts by the 
United States and the European Union to end the conflicts in that 
region. Recent efforts on the part of the Government of Greece to deal 
constructively with its neighbor Turkey on outstanding issues where 
they have differences show hope for ensuring future stability 
throughout the Aegean Sea region, an outcome the United States seeks as 
well.
  Madam Speaker, this resolution notes that this year marks the 187th 
anniversary of the beginning of the revolution that led to the 
independence of Greece. There are approximately 1.3 million Americans 
of Greek descent living in the United States. A large number of Greek 
Americans live in northern Illinois, particularly the Chicago area. 
Greek Americans contribute significantly as community leaders, 
entrepreneurs, and mentors for young children. The Greek Orthodox 
Church in the United States and important Greek community organizations 
are positive forces and should be recognized also.
  So I welcome the opportunity afforded by our consideration of this 
resolution to point out the friendship and shared interests of our two 
countries. I congratulate the country and people of Greece for the 
progress they have made over the past 187 years, and I urge the 
adoption of this resolution.
  Madam Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.
  Mr. CROWLEY. Madam Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that the 
gentlewoman from Nevada (Ms. Berkley) control the remaining portion of 
my time.
  The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there objection to the request of the 
gentleman from New York?
  There was no objection.
  Ms. BERKLEY. Madam Speaker, I yield myself 2 minutes.
  I thank the gentleman for yielding and for giving me the opportunity 
to control the time on this issue. I rise today not only as a friend of 
Greece, but also as a daughter of Greece. My mother's family immigrated 
from Salonika, Greece, and I am very proud of my Greek-Jewish heritage.
  Greece has been a strong ally of the United States, standing by us in 
our struggles against Nazism, and now in the struggle against Islamic 
extremism. Greece paid an extraordinarily high price for their 
opposition to the Nazis, and we are forever grateful to them.
  Before World War II, half of the population of Salonika, Greece, 
around 80,000 people, were Jewish. After the Nazis finished with 
Greece, there were only 1,000 Jews left in Salonika. The reason 1,000 
Jews survived is because their Greek neighbors protected them, saved 
them, hid them; and for that I am grateful as well.
  Greece continues to be a top contributor to NATO and a leader in the 
Balkan region. The resolution before the House today extends our best 
wishes and congratulations to the people of Greece, whom we look to as 
our forebearers in democracy. I am proud to cosponsor this resolution, 
but I hope it is our first word on our friendship with Greece, and 
certainly not our last.
  I urge this House and this administration to strengthen our 
relationship with Greece by including them in the Visa Waiver Program. 
By designating Greece as such, we will send not only a message of 
friendship, but a message of thanks to the Greek community, which is so 
deserving of our friendship and our gratitude. They have met the 
criteria to become a visa waiver country and only await our approval on 
their application.
  On this anniversary, let us take concrete action to strengthen our 
bond with them and send a message of thanks to our friends in Greece.
  I reserve the balance of my time.
  Mr. MANZULLO. I yield such time as he may consume to the gentleman 
from Florida (Mr. Bilirakis).
  Mr. BILIRAKIS. Madam Speaker, I thank the gentleman, and thank you, 
Representative Berkley, for those kind words on my grandparents' 
country. I am so proud of my Greek heritage.
  Madam Speaker, I rise today with great pride and in strong support of 
House Resolution 1024, recognizing the 187th anniversary of Greek 
independence and celebrating Greek and American democracy.
  Like the American revolutionaries who fought for independence and 
established this great Republic we call the land of the free and the 
home of the brave, Greek freedom fighters began an arduous struggle to 
win independence for Greece and its people 187 years ago. When the 
Greeks began this glorious revolution after four centuries of Ottoman 
oppression, they faced what appeared to be insurmountable odds. It was 
David versus Goliath.
  On March 25, 1821, Archbishop Germanos of Patras raised the flag of 
freedom and was the first to declare Greece free. This day of rebellion 
was not chosen by chance. This holy day was dedicated to the Mother of 
God. To the Greeks of 1821, Theotokos was their champion, their savior, 
their protector. The revolution of 1821 brought independence to Greece 
and emboldened those who still sought freedom across the world. It was 
proved to the world that a united people through sheer will and 
perseverance can prevail against tyranny.
  The lessons the Greeks taught us then continue to provide strength to 
victims of persecution around the world today. By honoring the Greek 
struggle for independence, we reaffirm the values and ideas that make 
our Nation great. We also remember why freedom is so important.
  In the history of the Greek war for independence, there were many 
acts of heroism. From Theodoros Kolokotronis, the leader of the 
Klephts, who refused to submit to Ottoman domination, to the fiercely 
patriotic women of Suli, who, left alone, learned that Turkish troops 
were fast approaching their village, they began to dance the Syrtos, a 
patriotic Greek dance. One by one, they committed suicide by throwing 
themselves and their children off a mountain top. They chose to die 
rather than surrender and face slavery.
  There was also Athanasios Diakos, a legendary hero, a priest, a 
patriot, and a soldier. In full knowledge of their fatal fate, he led 
500 of his men in a notable stand against 8,000 Ottoman soldiers. 
Diakos' men were wiped out and he fell into the enemy's hands, where he 
was tortured before his death. He is the image of a Greek that gave all 
for love of faith and homeland. Long live his memory.
  Although many Greeks died, they were undeterred from their ultimate 
goal. ``Eleftheria I Thanatos,'' liberty or death, became their battle 
cry.
  These legends underscore Greece's absolute commitment to 
independence. As we all know, the price of liberty can be very high, 
hundreds of thousands of lives. Socrates, Plato, Pericles and many 
other great minds throughout history warned that we maintain democracy 
only at a great cost.
  Our Greek brothers earned their liberty with blood, as did our 
American forefathers. The freedom we enjoy today is due to the 
sacrifices made by men and women in the past. I take great pride in 
both, as I said, my Greek and American heritage. Each time I perform my 
constitutional duties, I am doing so in the legacy of the ancient 
Greeks and our American forefathers.
  As Thomas Jefferson once said, ``To the ancient Greeks we are all 
indebted for the light which led ourselves, American colonists, out of 
gothic darkness.''
  We celebrate Greek independence to reaffirm the common democratic 
heritage we share. And as Americans, we must continue to pursue this 
spirit of freedom and liberty that characterizes both of these great 
nations.
  Ms. BERKLEY. Madam Speaker, it gives me great pleasure to yield 3 
minutes to my friend and neighbor, the gentlewoman from New York (Mrs. 
Maloney), the chairwoman of the Subcommittee on Financial Institutions.
  Mrs. MALONEY of New York. I thank my colleague and friend for 
yielding and for her leadership.

[[Page H1466]]

  As an original cosponsor of this legislation and co-Chair and founder 
of the Congressional Caucus on Hellenic issues, I rise to celebrate the 
187th anniversary of Greece's declaration of independence from the 
Ottoman Empire.
  Against incredibly difficult odds, the Greeks defeated one of the 
most powerful empires in history to win their independence. Following 
400 years of Ottoman rule, in March 1821 Bishop Germanos raised the 
traditional Greek flag at the monastery of Agia Lavras, inciting his 
countrymen to rise up against the Ottoman army. Bishop Germanos' 
message to his people was clear: A new spirit was about to born in 
Greece. The following year, the Treaty of Constantinople established 
full independence of Greece.
  New York City is home to the largest Hellenic population outside of 
Greece and Cyprus. Western Queens, which I have the honor of 
representing, is often called ``Little Athens'' because of the large 
Hellenic population in that neighborhood.

                              {time}  1445

  New Yorkers celebrate Greek Independence Day with a parade down Fifth 
Avenue, along with many cultural events.
  These events, hosted by the Federation of Hellenic Societies and 
other Hellenic and philhellenic organizations and friends, remind us of 
the strong Hellenic American community's many strong contributions to 
our Nation's history and culture. Relations between the U.S. and Greece 
remain strong with a shared commitment to ensuring stability in 
southeastern Europe. I hope permanent solutions can be found for ending 
the division of Cyprus and finding a mutually agreeable name for the 
former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia.
  We have over 110 cosponsors of my legislation, and with the upcoming 
NATO summit, the time is more important than ever to find a solution to 
the name dispute.
  Additionally, I strongly support the inclusion of Greece in the Visa 
Waiver Program, and I have legislation before this body on this issue. 
Greece is the only member of the original 15 European nations not to 
belong to the Visa Waiver Program, and I was pleased that the 
administration formally nominated Greece for the Visa Waiver Program 
this September, and we will continue to monitor Greece's progress.
  I ask the Nation to join me in celebrating Greece's independence. 
Additionally, it is my sincere pleasure to pay tribute to New York's 
Hellenic American community for its many, many contributions to our 
city and our Nation. ``Zeto E Eleftheria,'' long live freedom.
  May we join in celebrating Greece's independence and its many 
contributions to our democracy through its form of government and its 
history.
  Mr. MANZULLO. Madam Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.
  Ms. BERKLEY. Madam Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from 
New York (Mr. Sires).
  Mr. SIRES. Madam Speaker, today I rise in strong support of House 
Resolution 1024, honoring the 187th anniversary of the independence of 
Greece. March 25 marks the day the Greek people were freed from the 
Ottoman Empire and asserted their rights to govern themselves.
  The citizens of Greece and the United States share a long history of 
Democratic ideals. The philosophical and political ideas of the ancient 
Greeks were an inspiration to the Founders of our democracy. Showing 
our support for Greek independence reminds us how important it is to 
continue defending freedom around the world. We must also remember 
those individuals that have fought on behalf of the freedom we share.
  Greece is a friend and ally, and when it comes to helping promote 
freedom and stability in their region and the global community, I am 
pleased to honor Greece today on its 187th anniversary, and I urge all 
my colleagues to support this resolution.
  Mr. MANZULLO. Madam Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.
  Ms. BERKLEY. Madam Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the gentlelady from 
Massachusetts (Ms. Tsongas).
  Ms. TSONGAS. Madam Speaker, I rise today in strong support of this 
resolution extending warm congratulations and best wishes to the people 
of Greece as they celebrate the 187th anniversary of their 
independence. In January, I joined a congressional delegation trip to 
Greece, Turkey, Kuwait, Iraq, and Afghanistan.
  I had not been in Greece in over 25 years, and it was wonderful to 
see how far this most beautiful country has come in the last quarter 
century, as hosting the 2004 Summer Olympics in Athens, Greece, made a 
tremendous investment in their infrastructure and cultivated new 
developments which have greatly enhanced their prosperity.
  My husband Paul's family emigrated from Greece to Lowell, 
Massachusetts, when Paul's father was 3 years old. His father is 
emblematic of a vibrant Greek American community in Massachusetts and 
across the country whose contributions have helped our Nation survive 
and thrive.
  The United States and Greece have longstanding ties based on our 
common heritage, shared values and a mutual commitment to freedom and 
democracy.
  This measure rightly expresses the House of Representatives' support 
for the important role that Greece has played in the wider region and 
in the community of nations since gaining its independence 187 years 
ago.
  I urge my colleagues to support this resolution.
  Mr. MANZULLO. Madam Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.
  Ms. BERKLEY. Madam Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the outstanding 
freshman from Maryland (Mr. Sarbanes).
  Mr. SARBANES. Madam Speaker, it is my honor to rise today in 
recognition of the 187th anniversary of Greek independence. The Greek 
people have proven to be the greatest of allies to the United States 
over many decades.
  Today we have new opportunities to demonstrate our support of Greece 
on key issues. Most immediate is the dispute over the name of the 
former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia. I urge the administration to 
help us celebrate Greek Independence Day by supporting Greece's 
position on this important issue. Greece's position makes sense for 
NATO, it makes sense for the United States, and it makes sense for 
peaceful international relations.
  Mr. WEXLER. Madam Speaker, I rise in strong support of H. Res. 1024, 
a resolution expressing support for the 187th anniversary of Greek 
independence.
  Madam Speaker, it was one year to the day that I joined my colleagues 
on the House Floor in paying tribute to one of America's most important 
allies, Greece. It was my honor at that time as it is today to pay 
tribute once again to Greek Independence Day and to offer my unwavering 
support for US-Greece bilateral relations.
  As someone who cares deeply about the issues of importance to the 
Greek American community, I believe this is an especially important 
day--one that is a reminder of America's long and historic partnership 
with Greece but also a day to celebrate the countless contributions of 
the Greek American community to this Nation.
  From the Balkans to Afghanistan to the war on terrorism, Greece has 
been a staunch ally of the United States and a leading advocate for 
democracy and the rule of law globally. To that end, it is critical 
over the coming weeks that the United States works closely with our 
NATO ally Greece and with officials in Skopje to find a mutually-
acceptable official name for the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia.
  I also strongly encourage the Bush administration to work with our 
partners in Athens to resolve the longstanding division on Cyprus. It 
is in the interests of the United States, European Union, Greece, 
Turkey as well as Greek and Turkish Cypriots that we build on the 
recent election of President Christofias who boldly pledged to ``extend 
a hand of friendship and cooperation to the Turkish Cypriots and their 
political leadership,'' and to ``invite them to work together towards 
our common goal for the good of Cyprus and its people.''
  Madam Speaker, Greece is known as the cradle of democracy. As 
Americans watch one of the most exciting elections in modern history, 
it is a reminder of what Greece gave to America and those nations 
seeking to perfect their democracy and civic society. These ideals 
crafted by Greek philosophers and put into practice both in Washington, 
Athens and globally have changed all of humankind.
  As a member of Congress who proudly represents a large Greek American 
community, I am deeply pleased that we have this opportunity on the 
House Floor to discuss the contributions of millions of Greek Americans 
and to pass a resolution that rightfully recognizes five million 
extraordinary citizens.

[[Page H1467]]

  Madam Speaker, I congratulate the Greek people on the 187th 
anniversary of their independence and strongly support this resolution.
  Mr. VAN HOLLEN. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of H. Res. 
1024, which celebrates the 187th anniversary of the independence of 
Greece, one of our country's closest and oldest allies. A longstanding 
member of NATO, Greece has played a pivotal role in the stability and 
development of the Balkans and the eastern Mediterranean region. It has 
invested over $20 billion in the countries of the region, contributing 
to the increasing economic vitality of the area. Greece has also 
contributed to peacekeeping operations that have been sponsored by the 
United Nations, the European Union, and the Organization on Security 
and Cooperation in Europe. In addition, it has closely collaborated 
with the United States in opposing and fighting terrorists and 
terrorist networks.
  Ancient Greece was the birthplace of democracy, and our country's 
Founding Fathers took much of their inspiration from reading the 
philosophers of that time and place as they created a fledgling new 
democracy here in the late 18th century. A century later, many Greek 
immigrants began to arrive at our shores, bringing with them a 
steadfast determination to succeed in realizing the American Dream. The 
Greek-American community, strengthened by new waves of immigration, has 
contributed to our society in numerous ways; many within the community 
have become leaders in the field of commerce, academia, the arts, and 
politics. They have also been instrumental in fostering close ties 
between the United States and Greece. As we celebrate the independence 
of Greece today, we also celebrate the accomplishments of the vibrant 
Greek-American community.
  Mr. GENE GREEN of Texas. Madam Speaker, I rise today to show my 
support for H. Res. 1024.
  This resolution recognizes the 187th anniversary of the independence 
of Greece and celebrates Greek and American democracy.
  On March 25, 1821, Greece declared its independence from the Ottoman 
Empire, and the United States and Greece have had a longstanding 
relationship ever since.
  The Greek community is particularly active in our own country.
  Greece shares our democratic values and principles and has been an 
important ally to the United States, particularly since World War I.
  As the most senior EU and NATO country in their region, they serve as 
a great role model for democracy, stability, and security for other 
countries in their region.
  I look forward to continued bilateral relations and friendship with 
Greece as we work together to address the issues in Southeast Europe.
  Mr. GARRETT of New Jersey. Madam Speaker, as a member of the 
Congressional Caucus on Hellenic Affairs, I am proud to congratulate 
the nation of Greece on the celebration of the 187th anniversary of 
independence. Ancient Greece is commonly thought of as the foundation 
for Western civilization. The Roman Empire borrowed much from Greek 
culture, including politics, philosophy, art, architecture, and 
language; and subsequently spread these ideas throughout Europe.
  However, the country often thought of as the ``Cradle of Democracy'' 
was conquered and governed by various empires for centuries. On March 
25, 1821, the Greek people rose up against Ottoman oppression and 
declared their independence. The Greeks later became the first ethnic 
group under the Ottoman Empire to gain independent sovereign power.
  America's early Founding Fathers adopted the concept of federalism, 
an idea influenced by the ancient Greek ``city-state,'' a small region 
ruled locally, but within the framework of a larger cultural area. The 
United States has been proud to stand with the people of Greece as they 
confronted oppression, solidified their democracy, and became part of 
the vibrant European economy.
  Both of our nations understand that even after independence is 
gained, it must be carefully guarded. Brave citizens must be willing to 
sacrifice their lives in order to protect liberty. Just as the U.S. and 
Greece have struggled to survive after the initial moment of 
independence was earned, we must continue to foster the causes of 
freedom and democracy.
  Again, I congratulate the Greek people on this historic celebration. 
This anniversary is a time to remember the sacrifices of the past, to 
take pride in your nation, and to look ahead to a future of promise.
  Mr. MANZULLO. Madam Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.
  Ms. BERKLEY. Madam Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.
  The SPEAKER pro tempore. The question is on the motion offered by the 
gentleman from New York (Mr. Crowley) that the House suspend the rules 
and agree to the resolution, H. Res. 1024, as amended.
  The question was taken; and (two-thirds being in the affirmative) the 
rules were suspended and the resolution, as amended, was agreed to.
  A motion to reconsider was laid on the table.

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