    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: William J. Clinton (1997, Book I)]
    [February 14, 1997]
    [Page 159]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Message on the Observance of Presidents' Day
    February 14, 1997

        I am pleased to join all Americans in celebrating Presidents' Day,
    1997.
        Each year at this time, we reflect with pride and gratitude on the
    achievements of our former Presidents; and we pay special tribute to
    George Washington and Abraham Lincoln, two extraordinary leaders whose
    clarity of vision and strength of character did so much to shape our
    country's destiny.
        Presidents Washington and Lincoln led America at pivotal moments in
    our history, moments that profoundly affected our nation's character and
    course for decades to follow. George Washington helped to win our
    liberty and give us a democracy strong enough to endure through the
    centuries and flexible enough to survive the fresh challenges that face
    each generation of Americans. During the dark days of the Civil War,
    Abraham Lincoln held together the frayed fabric of our Union and
    reaffirmed our founders' commitment to the self-evident truths of
    liberty and equality.
        Today we stand at another defining moment in our national journey.
    We must chart a course for America into a new century and a new
    millennium. Inspired by the wisdom of Washington and strengthened by the
    determination of Lincoln, we will build a new American community, based
    on responsible citizenship and a resolve to realize the full potential
    of all our citizens. In this way, we can best keep faith with the
    remarkable leaders whose memory we honor today.
        Best wishes for a wonderful observance.

                                                                Bill Clinton