Leif Erikson Day, 2008

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Title 3--
The President

Proclamation 8303 of October 8, 2008

Leif Erikson Day, 2008

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

On Leif Erikson Day, we remember that son of Iceland
and grandson of Norway for his journey to North
America, and we celebrate the influential role Nordic
Americans have played in our society.

Leif Erikson was among the world's greatest and most
daring explorers. More than 1,000 years ago, he led a
crew across the Atlantic to North America. Today, the
same desire to explore and open new frontiers inspires
our citizens and contributes to the strength of our
Nation.

America's friendships with Denmark, Finland, Iceland,
Norway, and Sweden are strong, and Nordic Americans
have added to our rich cultural diversity and proud
ancestry. On this day, we recognize these individuals
for their remarkable achievements in all sectors of our
society. America is grateful for the many contributions
of Nordic Americans, and we continue to draw
inspiration from the courage and optimism of the
adventurous Leif Erikson.

To honor Leif Erikson and to celebrate our citizens of
Nordic American heritage, the Congress, by joint
resolution (Public Law 88-566) approved on September 2,
1964, has authorized the President to proclaim October
9 of each year as ``Leif Erikson Day.''

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the
United States of America, do hereby proclaim October 9,
2008, as Leif Erikson Day. I call upon all Americans to
observe this day with appropriate ceremonies,
activities, and programs to honor our rich Nordic-
American heritage.

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