[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 159 (2013), Part 4]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 4845]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                TRIBUTE HONORING GREEK INDEPENDENCE DAY

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. BILL PASCRELL, JR.

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, April 9, 2013

  Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the 192nd 
anniversary of Greece's independence, which we celebrated on Monday, 
March 25. This event commemorates the day in 1821 when the people of 
Greece reclaimed their heritage as democratic citizens and restored 
democracy to their nation.
  The ancient Greeks established the world's first democratic 
government, and contributed to our own understanding of the world in 
diverse fields such as mathematics, philosophy and medicine. The 
democratic principles set forth by the ancient Greeks were the 
archetype for Americans to establish a democracy in 1776 and have 
guided our nation ever since. These classical ideals inspired our own 
founding fathers and shaped the United States Constitution which we are 
sworn to uphold as Members of Congress.
  America's relationship with the people of Greece runs deep. Since the 
birth of our nations, the ties of democracy between Greece and America 
have been unwavering. The strong partnership between our two countries 
has served as vital tool in peacekeeping efforts around the world. Our 
long, shared history of democracy and peace is an ideal that should be 
cherished and honored.
  Just as my grandparents ventured to the United States from Italy, the 
first Greek Americans came here to find a better life for themselves 
and their families. Their descendants have risen to the highest levels 
of American culture, government and society. Greek Independence Day is 
a day to honor the contributions, traditions, and successes of our 
fellow Greek Americans and our Greek friends abroad.
  The job of a United States Congressman involves much that is 
rewarding, and I am truly proud to recognize and commemorate Greek 
Independence Day alongside the vibrant Greek community in Northern New 
Jersey.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join our colleagues, Greek Americans, and 
all of our Greek friends around the world, in recognizing the 192nd 
Greek Independence Day.

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