For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
March 6, 2004
Irish-American Month, 2004
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation
Millions of Americans trace their ancestry to Ireland's shores.
During Irish-American Heritage Month, we recognize these proud citizens
and their important contributions to America.
Irish Americans have helped settle the American frontier, build our
cities, and defend our homeland. Through their service in government
and the military, they have helped to uphold our democracy and advance
liberty and peace around the world. Through their dedication to faith
and family, they have strengthened our communities and enriched our
Nation's character.
The names of Irish Americans who have helped make America great are
familiar. Davy Crockett and Sam Houston helped settle the West. As
Archbishop, John Cardinal O'Connor served the people of New York with
conviction and compassion. President John Kennedy led America with
steadfast deter-mination during a time of great challenge.
These and millions of other Irish Americans have made America
better and stronger. This month, we celebrate the enormous gifts Irish
Americans have given this Nation.
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 2004 as
Irish-American Heritage Month. I call upon all Americans to observe
this month by celebrating the contributions of Irish Americans to our
Nation.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this fifth
day of March, in the year of our Lord two thousand four, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and
twenty-eighth.
GEORGE W. BUSH
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