[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 39 (Thursday, April 7, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E579]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                           GREEK INDEPENDENCE

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                         HON. MARTIN T. MEEHAN

                            of massachusetts

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, April 5, 2005

  Mr. MEEHAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of the 184th 
anniversary of Greek Independence Day.
  On March 25, 1821, the people of Greece launched a long, but 
successful revolt against 400 years of oppressive rule by the Ottoman 
Turks. Greece's eight year struggle for independence is a testament to 
the strength of the human spirit in its pursuit of freedom.
  As Americans, we share with the Greeks their longstanding commitment 
to democracy and the rule of law. Our Nation's founding principles of 
freedom and democracy were influenced by ancient Greek philosophers 
just as the Greek revolution of 1821 was inspired by the American fight 
for freedom in 1776.
  Our common struggles against totalitarianism and fascism have forged 
a bond between our nations. Greece has stood by the United States 
throughout modern history's major world conflicts, including World War 
II, the Korean War, the Cold War, and now, the war on terror.
  Last summer, the Olympic Games returned to their ancient birthplace. 
Greece accommodated more than 10,000 athletes from 202 countries. 
Greece proudly displayed its culture and civilization, and hosted 
people of all nationalities to participate in noble athletic 
competition.
  I am proud to represent a large and active Greek-American community 
in my congressional district. I have worked with my constituents to 
support the return of the Elgin marbles, U.S. participation in 
negotiations over Cyprus, the inclusion of Greece in the Visa Waiver 
Pilot Program, and the presentation of the Congressional Gold Medal to 
His All Holiness Patriarch Bartholomew.
  I congratulate the people of Greece on their Nation's 184th 
anniversary of independence and freedom.

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