[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 118, 108th Congress, 2nd Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

Proclamation 7827 of October 6, 2004


 
German-American Day, 2004


By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

Generations of German immigrants and their descendents have helped build
America and chart its course through history. On German-American Day, we
recognize these proud citizens for their important contributions to
America and honor the bond between two great nations.
German Americans have been part of America's history since its earliest
days, beginning with the establishment of the Jamestown Colony in 1607
and the arrival of German Quakers and Mennonite families in 1683. Many
of these early settlers came to America seeking religious freedom and
the chance to develop a community based on tolerance and respect for all
people. During the westward expansion of the United States, many German
families helped settle communities, found cities, and develop the
agriculture industry. Over time, the core beliefs of these freedom-
loving individuals helped define the liberty and opportunity that our
country represents. Their traditions of public debate and active
citizenship influenced important social issues such as land reform,
abolition, workers' rights, and women's suffrage.
This week, our Government is breaking ground for a new Embassy in
historic Berlin, exemplifying America's support of a unified Germany.
Sharing a common commitment to freedom, peace, and prosperity, the
citizens of Germany and America can build a better future for the
benefit of all nations.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of
America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and
laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim October 6, 2004, as
German-American Day, and I encourage all Americans to recognize the
contributions of our citizens of German descent.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this sixth day of
October, in the year of our Lord two thousand four, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-
ninth.
GEORGE W. BUSH

PROCLAMATION 7828--OCT. 7, 2004