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Proc. 8107 Title 3--The President band of hungry soldiers faced the professional army of a great empire, and his unshakable vision for a new democracy proved a powerful inspiration to his troops. Knowing that the outcome of their struggle would determine "the destiny of unborn Millions," Washington led his often ragged forces beyond incredible hardships into battle and on to victory with strength, steadfastness, and a quiet confidence. The triumphant General treasured his brief time at home, but his devotion to duty and belief in the promise of a more perfect Union lured Wash- ington from Mount Vernon. He presided over the Constitutional Conven- tion with wisdom, diplomacy, and humility and helped form the working model of our democracy. When the Constitution was ratified, America again turned to a beloved and proven leader, electing George Washington as the first President of the United States. As we celebrate the life of George Washington and his contributions to the American experiment, we can also take pride in our stewardship of the Re- public he forged. Today, he would see in America the world's foremost champion of liberty--a Nation that stands for freedom for all, a Nation that stands with democratic reformers, and a Nation that stands up to tyranny and terror. On his 275th birthday, George Washington would see an Amer- ica fulfilling the promise of her Founders, honoring the durable wisdom of our Constitution, and moving forward in the world with confidence, com- passion, and strength. 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 February 22, 2007, as the 275th Anniversary of the Birth of George Washington. I encourage all Americans to ioin me in honoring the Father of our Country with appro- priate civic and service programs and activities in remembrance of George Washington and with gratitude for all he gave for his country. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this sixteenth day of February, in the year of our Lord two thousand seven, and of the Inde- pendence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-first. GEORGE W. BUSH Proclamation 8107 of February 26, 2007 Irish-American Heritage Month, 2007 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation The friendship between Ireland and the United States has deep roots, and Irish Americans have played an integral role in making our country a place of hope and opportunity. During Irish-American Heritage Month, we recog- nize the vital contributions of Irish Americans to our Nation. Since our founding, Irish immigrants have come to America's shores in search of better lives. Today, millions of American citizens are of Irish de- scent, and they and their forbearers have helped shape our way of life, strengthened our economy, and contributed to the arts, and protected our 8