[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 123, 111th Congress, 1st Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

 
PROCLAMATION 8435--OCT. 7, 2009

Proclamation 8435 of October 7, 2009
Leif Erikson Day, 2009
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation

On this day in 1825, the ship Restauration landed in New York City after
sailing for 3 months from Stavanger, Norway. The 52 passengers aboard
represented the first organized emigration of Norwegians to America.
These brave individuals set to the seas, following in the grand
footsteps of the famous Scandinavian explorer Leif Erikson. Over a
millennium ago, Leif Erikson-son of Iceland and grandson of Norway-
arrived in North America and founded the settlement Vinland, located in
modern-day Canada. Today, we celebrate his historic voyage and remember
those who journeyed to America from far-away lands.
Our Nation's founding history is marked by millions of individuals who
faced great hardship and difficulty as they pursued a brighter future
abroad. As explorers, they did not know what they would find, but they
were determined not to turn back, in order to learn what lay beyond the
setting sun. This same spirit lived within Leif Erikson, and it has
inspired countless others who venture from their homes in search of
opportunity, uncertain of the possibilities and challenges that await
them.
Today, our Nation continues to welcome those descendents of Leif Erikson
to our shores. Nordic Americans have contributed immeasurably to the
success of America. Their cultural accomplishments have enriched the
diversity of our country. And their pioneering spirit continues to
embody our Nation's unbounded enthusiasm for discovery and learning.
To honor Leif Erikson and celebrate our Nordic-American heritage, the
Congress, by joint resolution (Public Law 88-566) approved on September
2, 1964, has authorized the President to proclaim October 9 of each year
as ``Leif Erikson Day.''
NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of
America, do hereby proclaim October 9, 2009, as Leif Erikson Day, and I
call upon all Americans to observe this day with appropriate ceremonies,
activities, and programs to honor our country's 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 nine, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
fourth.
BARACK OBAMA