[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 42, Number 12 (Monday, March 27, 2006)]
[Page 495]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Proclamation 7989--Greek Independence Day: A National Day of Celebration 
of Greek and American Democracy, 2006

March 17, 2006

By the President of the United States

of America

A Proclamation

    On Greek Independence Day, we celebrate the proud heritage of Greek 
Americans, recognize the longstanding friendship between the United 
States and Greece, and reaffirm our shared desire to spread freedom to 
people around the world.
    Greece is the birthplace of democratic principles, and the story of 
modern Greek independence demonstrates the power of liberty. On March 
25, 1821, Greek revolutionaries declared their independence from the 
Ottoman Empire after centuries of imperial rule. This bold action began 
an 11-year war to secure their freedom and gain recognition as a 
sovereign country. Americans at the time identified with the Greek 
struggle and provided support to aid the effort. Leaders such as John 
Adams, Thomas Jefferson, and James Madison encouraged the Greek cause 
and supported the desire for a representative government that would 
ensure liberty and justice for all its citizens, and they offered our 
Constitution as a model for consideration.
    A strong cooperation and friendship has developed between Greece and 
America, and our Nation has benefited from the contributions of Greek 
immigrants. The hard work of Greek Americans has made our country 
stronger and influenced our literature, arts, businesses, politics, 
education, and entertainment. The faith, traditions, and patriotism of 
Greek Americans have enriched our society.
    The United States and Greece are bound together by common values and 
a deep desire to protect and extend freedom and peace. On this special 
occasion, we celebrate our friendship and our commitment to advancing 
democracy, prosperity, and security.
    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, 2006, 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 seventeenth day 
of March, in the year of our Lord two thousand six, and of the 
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and 
thirtieth.
                                                George W. Bush

[Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 8:45 a.m., March 21, 
2006]

Note: This proclamation was published in the Federal Register on March 
22. This item was not received in time for publication in the 
appropriate issue.