[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 42 (Thursday, March 21, 2013)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E364]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   IN RECOGNITION OF THE 192ND ANNIVERSARY OF GREEK INDEPENDENCE DAY

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                         HON. CHRIS VAN HOLLEN

                              of maryland

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, March 21, 2013

  Mr. VAN HOLLEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise to commemorate the 192nd 
anniversary of Greek Independence. On this day, we honor the memory and 
sacrifice of those who fought and died to free their nation from 
occupation. The revolution brought independence to the Greece and 
confidence to other oppressed peoples around the world who also yearned 
for freedom. The message the Greek people sent out to the world in 1821 
continues to reverberate today as a beacon of hope to those who seek 
the right of self-determination. When we recognize Greek Independence 
Day we reaffirm the ideals and values that inspired Thomas Jefferson to 
say that Americans owe the ancient Greeks a great debt for showing us 
the light and helping to lead us out of darkness. Each year that we 
honor Greek Independence, we acknowledge that debt, and by our example, 
let oppressed people know that we stand with them in their quest for 
freedom.

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