[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 132, 115th Congress, 2nd Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

 
Proclamation 9802 of October 8, 2018

Leif Erikson Day, 2018

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

More than a millennium ago, Leif Erikson sailed across the frigid
Atlantic and set foot on North America, likely becoming the first
European to reach our continent. On Leif Erikson Day, we celebrate the
extraordinary journey made by this son of Iceland and grandson of Norway
with his crew and recognize the immeasurable contributions that
generations of Nordic Americans have made to our Nation.
After converting to Christianity in Norway, ``Leif the Lucky''; set out
to bring the Gospel to settlers in his native Greenland. During his
extensive travels, he landed on the northern Atlantic coast, expanding
mankind's knowledge of then-uncharted territory. Centuries later, many
Nordic families followed his example and set sail for America with the
same determination and grit. After much struggle and sacrifice, these
intrepid men and women arrived on our shores with hope for a better
life.
Today, we recognize the descendants of immigrants from Iceland, Norway,
Denmark, Sweden, and Finland for the tremendous role they have played in
developing the indomitable spirit that defines the American people.
Nordic Americans have traveled in space, crisscrossed the globe by
single-engine monoplane, and advanced knowledge in science and
engineering. Nordic Americans have won Oscars, Grammy Awards, Pulitzer
Prizes, and Nobel Prizes. They have fought--and died--in each of our
Nation's wars.
We also reflect on the deep and enduring ties we have with the Nordic
countries. They are among our greatest allies in the fight against
terrorism, and they are important trading partners. We renew our
commitment to continue strengthening these transatlantic relationships.
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 of the United States to proclaim
October 9 of each year as ``Leif Erikson Day.'';
NOW, THEREFORE, I, DONALD J. TRUMP, 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 October 9, 2018, as
Leif Erikson Day. I call upon all Americans to celebrate the
contributions of Nordic Americans to our Nation with appropriate
ceremonies, activities, and programs.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this eighth day of
October, in the year of our Lord two thousand eighteen, and of the

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Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-
third.
DONALD J. TRUMP