[Federal Register Volume 76, Number 198 (Thursday, October 13, 2011)]
[Presidential Documents]
[Pages 63807-63808]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2011-26726]


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  Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 198 / Thursday, October 13, 2011 / 
Presidential Documents  

[[Page 63807]]


                Proclamation 8734 of October 7, 2011

                
Leif Erikson Day, 2011

                By the President of the United States of America

                A Proclamation

                The first Europeans known to set foot on North America 
                took to the ocean more than a millennium ago, facing 
                fierce waters and an uncertain course. Led by Leif 
                Erikson--son of Iceland and grandson of Norway--these 
                intrepid Scandinavians sailed fearlessly into the 
                unknown, driven by the promise of adventure and dreams 
                of new discoveries. When they landed in modern day 
                Canada, they founded the settlement of Vinland and 
                established a legacy of exploration and exchange that 
                is fundamental to our courageous spirit.

                Evoking the bravery and determination that 
                characterized Erikson and his crew of pioneers, a group 
                of Norwegians completed their own journey on October 9, 
                1825. Crammed into an undersized sloop named 
                Restauration, these brave travelers sought new 
                opportunities and embraced the same commitment to 
                exploration that had driven their predecessors 
                centuries earlier. On Leif Erikson Day, we commemorate 
                these historic voyages and celebrate the many ways 
                Nordic-American culture has enriched our Nation.

                The triumphs of Erikson and those who followed inspire 
                us to continue reaching for new horizons. Whether 
                developing new technologies, pushing the boundaries of 
                medicine, or driving ever further into the vastness of 
                space, we do so confidently, knowing that icons like 
                Leif Erikson were able to overcome incredible odds and 
                drive the world forward. Today, let us celebrate his 
                life and legacy with the bold pursuit of America's next 
                great innovation.

                To honor Leif Erikson and celebrate our Nordic-American 
                heritage, the Congress, by joint resolution (Public Law 
                88-566) approved on September 2, 1964, has authorized 
                the President to proclaim October 9 of each year as 
                ``Leif Erikson Day.''

                NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the 
                United States of America, do hereby proclaim October 9, 
                2011, as Leif Erikson Day. I call upon all Americans to 
                observe this day with appropriate ceremonies, 
                activities, and programs to honor our rich Nordic-
                American heritage.

[[Page 63808]]

                IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this 
                seventh day of October, in the year of our Lord two 
                thousand eleven, and of the Independence of the United 
                States of America the two hundred and thirty-sixth.
                
                
                    (Presidential Sig.)

[FR Doc. 2011-26726
Filed 10-12-11; 11:15 am]
Billing code 3295-F2-P