[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 119, 109th Congress, 1st Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

 
PROCLAMATION 7943--OCT. 7, 2005
Proclamation 7943 of October 7, 2005
Leif Erikson Day, 2005
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation
More than 1,000 years ago, Leif Erikson left the coast of Greenland and
began a journey to explore new lands. He made that voyage in the spirit
of discovery and became one of the first Europeans known to have reached
North America, inspiring stories of bountiful lands and charting a way
for future explorers to follow. On Leif Erikson Day, we celebrate the
accomplishments of Leif Erikson and his crew, and we honor the many
contributions of Nordic Americans to our Nation.
The journey of Leif Erikson reflects the spirit that has made America
strong, as the desire to explore and understand is part of our national
character. Today, we continue to push the frontiers of knowledge in many
areas and especially with our exploration of space, drawn to the heavens
as we were once drawn to the open seas.
Generations of Nordic Americans have come to our country with a sense of
determination and optimism, and they have helped build a stronger and
more vibrant Nation. On Leif Erikson Day, we celebrate Nordic Americans,
as well as the ties between America and the Nordic nations. We are
joined by a common respect for liberty, human rights, and the dignity of
every person. Working together, we are spreading freedom and hope, and
we are helping to build a better and more compassionate world.
To honor Leif Erikson, son of Iceland and grandson of Norway, and to
celebrate our citizens of Nordic-American heritage, the Congress, by
joint resolution (Public Law 88-566) approved on September 2, 1964, has
authorized and requested the President to proclaim October 9 of each
year as ``Leif Erikson Day.'';
NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of
America, do hereby proclaim October 9, 2005, 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.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this seventh day of
October, in the year of our Lord two thousand five, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and
thirtieth.
GEORGE W. BUSH