[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 40, Number 13 (Monday, March 29, 2004)]
[Pages 472-473]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Proclamation 7764--Greek Independence Day: A National Day of Celebration 
of Greek and American Democracy, 2004

 March 25, 2004

 By the President of the United States

 of America

 A Proclamation

    The love of liberty that helped shape our Constitution has deep 
roots in the spirit of ancient Greece. As we observe Greek Independence 
Day, we celebrate the timeless democratic principles that all freedom-
loving people cherish.
    To continue to strengthen and spread liberty around the world, the 
values and traditions of democracy must be passed on to each new 
generation. In 1821, our Nation supported the cause of Greek 
independence when the brave men and women of Greece began their long 
struggle for liberty. This struggle continued through the end of World 
War II. On the anniversary of the Greek Declaration of Independence, we 
honor the courage of these proud patriots and celebrate our nations' 
shared commitment to democracy.
    Today, Greece and America are strong allies and strategic partners 
in the great struggles for liberty and the global war on terror. We are 
working together to bring a fair and lasting settlement to Cyprus. We 
look forward to a future of continued friendship and collaboration 
between our two great nations as we advance peace and democracy in the 
world.
    In celebrating Greek Independence Day, we are also grateful for the 
many ways Greek Americans have enriched our communities and strengthened 
our country.
    Now, Therefore, I, George W. Bush, President of the United States of 
America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and 
laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim March 25, 2004, as Greek 
Independence Day: A National Day of Celebration of Greek and American 
Democracy. I call upon all Americans to observe this day with 
appropriate ceremonies and activities.
    In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-fifth 
day of March, in the year of our Lord two thousand four, and of the 
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-
eighth.
                                                George W. Bush

 [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 10:38 a.m., March 26, 
2004]

Note: This proclamation was published in the Federal Register on March 
29.

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