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

 
PROCLAMATION 8072--OCT. 18, 2006
Proclamation 8072 of October 18, 2006
50th Anniversary of the Hungarian Revolution
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation
On the 50th anniversary of the Hungarian Revolution, we celebrate the
Hungarians who defied an empire to demand their liberty, we recognize
the friendship between the United States and Hungary, and we reaffirm
our shared desire to spread freedom to people around the world.
The story of Hungarian democracy represents the triumph of liberty over
tyranny. In the fall of 1956, the Hungarian people demanded change, and
tens of thousands of students, workers, and other citizens bravely
marched through the streets to call for freedom. Though Soviet tanks
brutally crushed the Hungarian uprising, the thirst for freedom lived
on, and in 1989 Hungary became the first communist nation in Europe to
make the transition to democracy. The lesson of the Hungarian experience
is clear: liberty can be delayed, but it cannot be denied. Today, this
beautiful country has held democratic elections, established a free
economy, and inspired millions around the world.
The United States is grateful for the warm relationship between our
countries and for Hungary's efforts to expand freedom and democracy
around the world in places such as the Balkans, Iraq, Afghanistan, and
Cuba. By spreading the blessings of liberty, Hungary is helping to lay
the foundation of peace for generations to come.
As we celebrate this anniversary, we also recognize the many ways
Hungarian Americans have enriched and strengthened our country. Their
spirit and hard work have contributed to the vitality, success, and
prosperity of our Nation, and we continue to be inspired by their
courage and conviction.
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 23, 2006, as a day
of recognition in honor of the 50th Anniversary of the

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Hungarian Revolution. I encourage all Americans to observe this day with
appropriate ceremonies and activities.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this eighteenth day of
October, in the year of our Lord two thousand six, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
first.
GEORGE W. BUSH