[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 44, Number 40 (Monday, October 13, 2008)]
[Pages 1320-1321]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Proclamation 8203--Leif Erikson Day, 2008

 October 8, 2008

 By the President of the United States

 of America

 A Proclamation

    On Leif Erikson Day, we remember that son of Iceland and grandson of 
Norway for his journey to North America, and we celebrate the 
influential role Nordic Americans have played in our society.
    Leif Erikson was among the world's greatest and most daring 
explorers. More than 1,000 years ago, he led a crew across the Atlantic 
to North America. Today, the same desire to explore and open new 
frontiers inspires our citizens and contributes to the strength of our 
Nation.
    America's friendships with Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, and 
Sweden are strong, and Nordic Americans have added to our rich cultural 
diversity and proud ancestry. On this day, we recognize these 
individuals for their remarkable achievements in all sectors of our 
society. America is grateful for the many contributions of Nordic 
Americans, and we continue to draw inspiration from the courage and 
optimism of the adventurous Leif Erikson.
    To honor Leif Erikson and to celebrate our citizens of Nordic 
American heritage, the Congress, by joint resolution (Public Law 88-566) 
approved on September 2, 1964, has authorized the President to proclaim 
October 9 of each year as ``Leif Erikson Day.''
     Now, Therefore, I, George W. Bush, President of the United States 
of America, do hereby proclaim October 9, 2008, as Leif Erikson Day. I 
call upon all Americans to observe this day with appropriate ceremonies, 
activities, and programs to honor our rich Nordic-American heritage.
     In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this eighth day of 
October, in the year of our Lord two thousand eight, and of the 
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
third.
                                                George W. Bush

 [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 8:45 a.m., October 10, 
2008]

[[Page 1321]]

Note: This proclamation will be published in the Federal Register on 
October 14.