[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 43, Number 7 (Monday, February 19, 2007)]
[Page 176]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Proclamation--275th Anniversary of the Birth of George Washington

 February 16, 2007

 By the President of the United States

 of America

 A Proclamation

    Two hundred seventy-five years after the birth of George Washington, 
we honor the life and legacy of a surveyor from Virginia who became 
Commander of the Continental Army, a major force at the Constitutional 
Convention, and the first President of the United States of America.
    Remembered by the Congress as ``first in war, first in peace, and 
first in the hearts of his countrymen,'' George Washington dedicated his 
life to the success of America. During the Revolutionary War, 
Washington's small band of hungry soldiers faced the professional army 
of a great empire, and his unshakable vision for a new democracy proved 
a powerful inspiration to his troops. Knowing that the outcome of their 
struggle would determine ``the destiny of unborn Millions,'' Washington 
led his often ragged forces beyond incredible hardships into battle and 
on to victory with strength, steadfastness, and a quiet confidence.
    The triumphant General treasured his brief time at home, but his 
devotion to duty and belief in the promise of a more perfect Union lured 
Washington from Mount Vernon. He presided over the Constitutional 
Convention with wisdom, diplomacy, and humility and helped form the 
working model of our democracy. When the Constitution was ratified, 
America again turned to a beloved and proven leader, electing George 
Washington as the first President of the United States.
    As we celebrate the life of George Washington and his contributions 
to the American experiment, we can also take pride in our stewardship of 
the Republic he forged. Today, he would see in America the world's 
foremost champion of liberty--a Nation that stands for freedom for all, 
a Nation that stands with democratic reformers, and a Nation that stands 
up to tyranny and terror. On his 275th birthday, George Washington would 
see an America fulfilling the promise of her Founders, honoring the 
durable wisdom of our Constitution, and moving forward in the world with 
confidence, compassion, and strength.
     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 February 22, 2007, as 
the 275th Anniversary of the Birth of George Washington. I encourage all 
Americans to join me in honoring the Father of our Country with 
appropriate civic and service programs and activities in remembrance of 
George Washington and with gratitude for all he gave for his country.
     In Witness Whereof, have hereunto set my hand this sixteenth day of 
February, in the year of our Lord two thousand seven, and of the 
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
first.
                                                George W. Bush

Note: At the time of publication, this proclamation had not been 
received by the Office of the Federal Register for assignment of a 
proclamation number.