German-American Day, 2009

Proclamation 8434 of October 6, 2009

German-American Day, 2009

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

Comprising the Nation's largest ancestry group, German
Americans have contributed to our collective identity
since the first settlements were founded in the 17th
century. Essential to the growth of America, these
farmers, soldiers, entrepreneurs, and patriots gave
their strength, determination, and in some
circumstances, their lives, so we all may experience a
brighter tomorrow. It is in this spirit that German
Americans continue to enrich our national character,
sharing their proud heritage with new generations from
every background. Today, we celebrate German Americans
for their remarkable role in our Nation's development.

Our citizens of German descent excel in every
discipline and open our minds to the expanses of human
possibility. When we drive across a suspension bridge,
listen to music played on a Steinway piano, or send a
child to kindergarten, their unique traditions and
customs surround us. German Americans have influenced
our Nation in myriad ways with their industry, culture,
and engagement in public life.

Germany and its people have also been active
participants in our Nation's history. This year, we
celebrate the 60th anniversary of the Federal Republic
of Germany, and the 20th anniversary of the fall of the
Berlin Wall. These milestones reinforce the German
people's dedication to democratic ideals, and we honor
the bonds that tie our two nations together.

America is a stronger Nation because of those families
who have established longstanding roots in our country,
as well as by those who have recently emigrated from
abroad. German immigrants, inhabiting every major city,
have given much of themselves throughout our history,
selflessly expanding the reach of the American Dream.
On this day, we celebrate and honor the past, present,
and future contributions of German Americans to the
rich and textured story of America.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the
United States of America, by virtue of the authority
vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the
United States, do hereby proclaim October 6, 2009, as
German-American Day. I encourage all Americans to learn
more about the history of German Americans and to
commemorate the many contributions they have made to
our Nation.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
sixth day of October, in the year of our Lord two
thousand nine, and of the Independence of the United
States of America the two hundred and thirty-fourth.