[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 44, Number 11 (Monday, March 24, 2008)]
[Page 414]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Proclamation 8227--Greek Independence Day: A National Day of Celebration 
of Greek and American Democracy, 2008

 March 20, 2008

 By the President of the United States

 of America

 A Proclamation

    On Greek Independence Day, we recognize the important contributions 
Greek Americans have made to our national character, celebrate the deep 
friendship between our two countries, and honor the anniversary of the 
Greek call for independence.
    The United States and Greece share a close relationship based on our 
common belief in the power of freedom. The ancient Athenians gave birth 
to the principles of democracy, and America's Founding Fathers were 
inspired by Greek ideals that honored and respected human dignity and 
rights. When the people of Greece claimed their independence in 1821, 
they had the strong support of the United States. Greek patriots risked 
their lives because they knew freedom and democracy were both their 
proud legacy and their ultimate destiny. Today, our nations remain 
allies in the cause of freedom and are working to lay the foundations of 
peace and spread the blessings of liberty around the world.
    In celebrating Greek Independence Day, we commemorate the heritage 
of freedom our countries hold dear, and we remember the Greek Americans 
whose strong spirit, resolve, and courage helped shape America.
     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, 2008, 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 twentieth day 
of March, in the year of our Lord two thousand eight, and of the 
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
second.
                                                George W. Bush

 [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 8:45 a.m., March 24, 
2008]

Note: This proclamation will be published in the Federal Register on 
March 25.