[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 126, 112th Congress, 2nd Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

 
PROCLAMATION 8787--MAR. 23, 2012

Proclamation 8787 of March 23, 2012

Greek Independence Day: A National Day of Celebration of Greek and

American Democracy, 2012

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

Two hundred and thirty-six years ago, a new American Nation was founded
on an old Greek principle--democratic rule by a free people. We trace
this enduring idea to ancient Hellas, where Greeks brought forth the
world's first democracy and kindled a philosophical tradition that would
stand the test of time. Over two millennia later, the Greek people rose
up to reclaim their heritage as citizens of a sovereign nation. Today,
on the 191st anniversary of Greece's independence, we commemorate that
struggle to restore democracy in its birthplace, renew the bonds that
bring our countries together, and celebrate the Hellenic ideals that
continue to shape the American experience.
As America's Founders built a Government of the people, by the people,
and for the people, they drew inspiration from the democratic pioneers
who shaped a small group of ancient Greek city states. In the years
since, Greece and America have strengthened that connection through
shared history and deep partnerships between our people. During the
American Civil War, Greek Americans served and fought to preserve our
Union. Through two World Wars and a long Cold War, America and Greece
stood as allies in the pursuit of peace. And for generations, Greek
Americans have profoundly enriched our national life. They stand as
leaders in every field and every part of our society, and their cultural
legacy still echoes in classrooms, courtrooms, and communities across
our Nation.
On Greek Independence Day, we commemorate the proud traditions that tie
our nations together and honor all those who trace their lineage to the
Hellenic Republic. Nearly 200 years after the Greek people won their war
to return democracy to their homeland and become a sovereign state, we
reaffirm the warm friendship and solidarity that will guide our work
together in the years ahead.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of
America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and
the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim March 25, 2012, as
Greek Independence Day: A National Day of Celebration of Greek and
American Democracy. I call upon all the people of the United States to
observe this day with appropriate ceremonies and activities.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-third day of
March, in the year of our Lord two thousand twelve, and


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of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
sixth.
BARACK OBAMA