[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 125, 112th Congress, 1st Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]


Proclamation 8734 of October 7, 2011

Leif Erikson Day, 2011
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation
The first Europeans known to set foot on North America took to the ocean
more than a millennium ago, facing fierce waters and an uncertain
course. Led by Leif Erikson--son of Iceland and grandson of Norway--
these intrepid Scandinavians sailed fearlessly into the unknown, driven
by the promise of adventure and dreams of new discoveries. When they
landed in modern day Canada, they founded the settlement of Vinland and
established a legacy of exploration and exchange that is fundamental to
our courageous spirit.
Evoking the bravery and determination that characterized Erikson and his
crew of pioneers, a group of Norwegians completed their own journey on
October 9, 1825. Crammed into an undersized sloop named Restauration,
these brave travelers sought new opportunities and embraced the same
commitment to exploration that had driven their predecessors centuries
earlier. On Leif Erikson Day, we commemorate these historic voyages and
celebrate the many ways Nordic-American culture has enriched our Nation.
The triumphs of Erikson and those who followed inspire us to continue
reaching for new horizons. Whether developing new technologies, pushing
the boundaries of medicine, or driving ever further into the vastness of
space, we do so confidently, knowing that icons like Leif Erikson were
able to overcome incredible odds and drive the world forward. Today, let
us celebrate his life and legacy with the bold pursuit of America's next
great innovation.
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, 2011, 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 eleven, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
sixth.
BARACK OBAMA