[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 33, Number 8 (Monday, February 24, 1997)]
[Page 195]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Message on the Observance of Presidents' Day

February 14, 1997

    I am pleased to join all Americans in celebrating Presidents' Day, 
1997.
    Each year at this time, we reflect with pride and gratitude on the 
achievements of our former Presidents; and we pay special tribute to 
George Washington and Abraham Lincoln, two extraordinary leaders whose 
clarity of vision and strength of character did so much to shape our 
country's destiny.
    Presidents Washington and Lincoln led America at pivotal moments in 
our history, moments that profoundly affected our nation's character and 
course for decades to follow. George Washington helped to win our 
liberty and give us a democracy strong enough to endure through the 
centuries and flexible enough to survive the fresh challenges that face 
each generation of Americans. During the dark days of the Civil War, 
Abraham Lincoln held together the frayed fabric of our Union and 
reaffirmed our founders' commitment to the self-evident truths of 
liberty and equality.
    Today we stand at another defining moment in our national journey. 
We must chart a course for America into a new century and a new 
millennium. Inspired by the wisdom of Washington and strengthened by the 
determination of Lincoln, we will build a new American community, based 
on responsible citizenship and a resolve to realize the full potential 
of all our citizens. In this way, we can best keep faith with the 
remarkable leaders whose memory we honor today.
    Best wishes for a wonderful observance.
                                                  Bill Clinton

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