George Bush actually said...

We accept this crystal of shamrocks, not just as a symbol of Ireland but as a symbol of a strong friendship between our nations.

St. Patrick's Day pays tribute to an incredible hero and to the rich cultural heritage of the Emerald Isle.

I assured him, and will continue to do so, that the United States stands ready to help in any way that the governments involved need.

St. Patrick's Day is also a time to honor the contributions of Irish Americans to our Nation's history and way of life.