[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 122, 110th Congress, 2nd Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

 
PROCLAMATION 8227--MAR. 20, 2008

Proclamation 8227 of March 20, 2008
Greek Independence Day: A National Day of Celebration of Greek and
American Democracy, 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