[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 41, Number 12 (Monday, March 28, 2005)]
[Pages 518-519]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Proclamation 7876--Greek Independence Day: A National Day of Celebration 
of Greek and American Democracy, 2005

 March 24, 2005

 By the President of the United States

 of America

 A Proclamation

    Well before modern Greece gained her independence, the ancient 
Athenians adopted democratic principles that guided their society. These 
principles inspired our Founding Fathers to proclaim the imperative of 
self-government as they worked to build our great Nation. America's love 
for liberty has deep roots in the spirit of Greece. On Greek 
Independence Day, we celebrate our special ties of friendship, history, 
and shared values with Greece.
    Our country has welcomed generations of Greek immigrants, and we are 
grateful for their talents, wisdom, and creativity. We honor the Greek 
spirit that values family and education, public service and faith. Greek 
Americans have made a mark in every field--enhancing our culture, 
enriching our commerce, and defending our freedom. Their strong record 
of public service has also

[[Page 519]]

strengthened our democracy, and their contributions have made America a 
better place.
    As we address the challenges of the 21st century, the United States 
and Greece remain committed partners in the vital work of advancing 
freedom and democracy. Our two Nations are founded on shared ideals of 
liberty, and we are working together to advance those ideals across the 
world today.
    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, 2005, 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-fourth 
day of March, in the year of our Lord two thousand five, and of the 
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-
ninth.
                                                George W. Bush

 [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 8:45 a.m., March 28, 
2005]

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