[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 51 (Wednesday, March 28, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E476]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




        CELEBRATING THE 191ST ANNIVERSARY OF GREEK INDEPENDENCE

                                 ______
                                 

                      HON. RODNEY P. FRELINGHUYSEN

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, March 28, 2012

  Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in 
commemorating the 191st anniversary of Greek independence. It is an 
honor to recognize a nation whose rich and vibrant history not only 
laid the foundation for democracy, but whose immigrants and descendants 
have enriched the cultural landscape of our Nation.
  The warm friendship that America shares with Greece is rooted in the 
indelible mark of democracy and self-determination that Hellenic 
culture has left on our country. We note that the ancient Greeks 
developed the concept of democracy, in which the supreme power to 
govern was vested in the people. Our Founding Fathers of the United 
States, many of whom read Greek political philosophy in the original 
Greek, drew heavily on the political experience and philosophy of 
ancient Greece in forming our representative democracy.
  And just as our founding fathers were guided by these principles in 
their fight for independence from the British Crown, so too were the 
founders of modern-day Greece, who declared their independence from the 
Ottoman Empire on March 25th, 191 years ago.
  Since the birth of both Nations, we have shared the desire to uphold 
the values of freedom, equality, and justice championed by the Ancient 
Greeks. We have joined together to promote peace and stability in the 
world. Indeed, Greece is our ally and our partner, having supported the 
United States in every major international conflict throughout the 20th 
century. Though rooted in ancient ideals, our strong allegiance 
continues today through a shared belief that freedom and democracy are 
the building blocks of peace.
  At home, we recognize the contributions of Greeks in the areas in 
culture, literature and architecture.
  I trust that the bonds between our two Nations will remain strong for 
years to come.
  I ask my colleagues to join me in extending warm congratulations and 
best wishes to the people of Greece as they celebrate the 191st 
anniversary of their independence.

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