[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 35, Number 6 (Monday, February 15, 1999)]
[Pages 225-226]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Message on the Observance of Presidents' Day, 1999

February 12, 1999

    I am pleased to join all Americans in observing Presidents' Day.
    Today we celebrate the vision and achievements of our nation's 
former Presidents, and we remember with special pride two of our 
greatest leaders, George Washington and Abraham Lincoln. Though born 
almost 80 years apart and shaped by vastly different circumstances and 
experiences, they still shared much in common. Each assumed the 
Presidency at a crucial moment in our nation's history; each had a clear 
vision of what America should be and the courage to lead his

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fellow citizens toward that vision; and each shared a profound devotion 
to our country and to its promise of freedom and human dignity. Because 
of George Washington, America's great experiment in democracy has 
succeeded; because of Abraham Lincoln, America's Union has been 
preserved.
    Now, as we stand at the dawn of a new century, we have a historic 
opportunity--and responsibility--to build on the legacies of Washington 
and Lincoln. Blessed with peace and unprecedented prosperity, we must 
seize this unique moment in our national life and shape a future where 
every American has the tools and the opportunity to succeed; where we 
finally understand that the dreams and ideals that unite us are more 
powerful than any differences that divide us; and where new generations 
of Americans can live in peace, prosperity, and freedom.
    Best wishes to all for a wonderful celebration.
                                                  Bill Clinton