    [Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 40, Number 12 (Monday, March 22, 2004)]
    [Pages 423-424]
    [Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

    <R04>
    Message on the Observance of Saint Patrick's Day, 2004

    March 16, 2004

        I send greetings to those celebrating St. Patrick's Day.
        On March 17th, we honor the remarkable life of Patrick, patron saint
    of Ireland. He helped bring Christianity to the Irish people. His
    generosity and love of liberty shaped Ireland's history and culture, and
    through generations of immigrants, those values have helped shape
    America.
        We are grateful for the many ways Irish-Americans have blessed our
    country. They have helped to expand our economy, create

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    our communities, and defend our homeland. Through their public service,
    they have strengthened our democracy, and their dedication to faith and
    family has enriched our Nation's character.
        Laura joins me in sending our best wishes for a happy St. Patrick's
    Day.
                                                    George W. Bush