Saxby Chambliss: “I am honored today to read George Washington's Farewell Address before the Senate. The tradition of reading this…”

“I am honored today to read George Washington's Farewell Address before the Senate. The tradition of reading this historical document was begun in 1893 and has continued each year with the exception of 1895. I am humbled to sign my name to the list of Senators who have been privileged to read the Farewell Address in observance of Washington's birthday, especially those from my home State of Georgia, Senators Augustus Bacon and Walter F. George. George Washington, the first President of the United States, was a legend in his own right by 1796, the year that the address was published. Americans knew Washington as the 'Father of our Country.' He was chosen to serve two Presidential terms, and could easily have served a third term with tremendous support from his fellow countrymen. Washington was a man of high moral character and integrity. He was a farmer, a military general, and a strong political leader whose leadership helped shape the foundation of our Government by balancing a strong central authority with the union of States that held our fledgling Nation together.”