[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 120, 109th Congress, 2nd Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

 
PROCLAMATION 7989--MAR. 17, 2006
Proclamation 7989 of March 17, 2006
Greek Independence Day: A National Day of Celebration of Greek and
American Democracy, 2006
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation
On Greek Independence Day, we celebrate the proud heritage of Greek
Americans, recognize the longstanding friendship between the United
States and Greece, and reaffirm our shared desire to spread freedom to
people around the world.
Greece is the birthplace of democratic principles, and the story of
modern Greek independence demonstrates the power of liberty. On March
25, 1821, Greek revolutionaries declared their independence from the
Ottoman Empire after centuries of imperial rule. This bold action began
an 11-year war to secure their freedom and gain recognition as a
sovereign country. Americans at the time identified with the Greek
struggle and provided support to aid the effort. Leaders such as John
Adams, Thomas Jefferson, and James Madison encouraged the Greek cause
and supported the desire for a representative government that would
ensure liberty and justice for all its citizens, and they offered our
Constitution as a model for consideration.
A strong cooperation and friendship has developed between Greece and
America, and our Nation has benefited from the contributions of Greek
immigrants. The hard work of Greek Americans has made our country
stronger and influenced our literature, arts, businesses, politics,
education, and entertainment. The faith, traditions, and patriotism of
Greek Americans have enriched our society.
The United States and Greece are bound together by common values and a
deep desire to protect and extend freedom and peace. On this special
occasion, we celebrate our friendship and our commitment to advancing
democracy, prosperity, and security.

[[Page 3775]]
120 STAT. 3775

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 March 25, 2006, as Greek
Independence Day: A National Day of Celebration of Greek and American
Democracy. I call upon all Americans to observe this day with
appropriate ceremonies and activities.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this seventeenth day of
March, in the year of our Lord two thousand six, and of the Independence
of the United States of America the two hundred and thirtieth.
GEORGE W. BUSH