Bob Dole: “I rise today to note that Friday will mark the 173d anniversary of the beginning of the 1821 revolution which freed the…”

“I rise today to note that Friday will mark the 173d anniversary of the beginning of the 1821 revolution which freed the Greek people from nearly 400 years of domination by the Ottoman Empire. And I am proud that Congress has designated today as 'Greek Independence Day.' It is appropriate that Americans remember this day, because of the important role that the culture and citizens of Greece have played--and continue to play--in our country. Not only is the beauty of Greece timeless, so, too, are the many ideas and virtues which found their birthplace in Hellenic culture-- ideas like democracy, public service, and the importance of family. Perhaps it is our dedication to democracy which has made our countries allies for so long. It is worth noting that Greece is one of only three nations in the world, beyond the former British Empire, allied with the United States in every major international conflict this century. As a veteran of World War II, I well know that over 600,000 Greeks died fighting on the side of the allies in World War II--a remarkable 9 percent of the entire population of Greece at that time. Mr. President, on this Greek Independence Day, I am proud to join with countless others in pledging ourselves to a future relationship with Greece and her people that is truly worthy of our historic past.”