[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 123, 111th Congress, 1st Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

 
PROCLAMATION 8434--OCT. 6, 2009

Proclamation 8434 of October 6, 2009
German-American Day, 2009
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation

Comprising the Nation's largest ancestry group, German Americans have
contributed to our collective identity since the first settlements were
founded in the 17th century. Essential to the growth of America, these
farmers, soldiers, entrepreneurs, and patriots gave their strength,
determination, and in some circumstances, their lives, so we all may
experience a brighter tomorrow. It is in this spirit that German
Americans continue to enrich our national character, sharing their proud
heritage with new generations from every background. Today, we celebrate
German Americans for their remarkable role in our Nation's development.
Our citizens of German descent excel in every discipline and open our
minds to the expanses of human possibility. When we drive across a
suspension bridge, listen to music played on a Steinway piano, or send a
child to kindergarten, their unique traditions and customs surround us.
German Americans have influenced our Nation in myriad ways with their
industry, culture, and engagement in public life.
Germany and its people have also been active participants in our
Nation's history. This year, we celebrate the 60th anniversary of the
Federal Republic of Germany, and the 20th anniversary of the fall of the
Berlin Wall. These milestones reinforce the German people's dedication
to democratic ideals, and we honor the bonds that tie our two nations
together.
America is a stronger Nation because of those families who have
established longstanding roots in our country, as well as by those who
have recently emigrated from abroad. German immigrants, inhabiting every
major city, have given much of themselves throughout our history,
selflessly expanding the reach of the American Dream. On this day, we
celebrate and honor the past, present, and future contributions of
German Americans to the rich and textured story of America.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of
America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and
the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim October 6, 2009, as
German-American Day. I encourage all Americans to learn more about the
history of German Americans and to commemorate the many contributions
they have made to our Nation.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this sixth day of
October, in the year of our Lord two thousand nine, and of the Inde-

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123 STAT. 3718

pendence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
fourth.
BARACK OBAMA