    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: William J. Clinton (1995, Book I)]
    [March 8, 1995]
    [Page 322]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Message on the Observance of Saint Patrick's Day, 1995
    March 8, 1995

        Warmest greetings to everyone celebrating Saint Patrick's Day.
        More than 1500 years ago, Saint Patrick escaped the bonds of slavery
    and brought his message of faith and opportunity to the Emerald Isle.
    His extraordinary courage and conviction inspired the Irish people and
    heralded a new era of enlightenment and peace for his adopted homeland.
    Today, Saint Patrick's legacy continues to endure, in Ireland and
    beyond, as we strive for the hope embodied by his teachings and his
    life's work.
        On this feast of the patron saint of Ireland, we rejoice in our
    Irish heritage and honor the Irish Americans who have made immeasurable
    contributions to our nation and our culture. Since the earliest days of
    our republic, the sons and daughters of Ireland have symbolized the
    American dream. Overcoming political, economic, and social struggles,
    Irish Americans have achieved tremendous success in all realms of
    American life--from politics to education, business to the arts.
        This Saint Patrick's Day has a special importance to all friends of
    Ireland for it is the first in a generation to occur in a peaceful
    Northern Ireland. Let us today join together to build on the progress of
    the past year and advance the cause of peace and reconciliation.
        Across our country today, in parades, in classrooms, and in
    churches, millions of Irish Americans will celebrate the spirit of Saint
    Patrick that lives on in all of us. Best wishes to all for a wonderful
    holiday.

                                                                Bill Clinton