Leif Erikson Day, 2009

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Title 3--
The President

Proclamation 8435 of October 7, 2009

Leif Erikson Day, 2009

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

On this day in 1825, the ship Restauration landed in
New York City after sailing for 3 months from
Stavanger, Norway. The 52 passengers aboard represented
the first organized emigration of Norwegians to
America. These brave individuals set to the seas,
following in the grand footsteps of the famous
Scandinavian explorer Leif Erikson. Over a millennium
ago, Leif Erikson--son of Iceland and grandson of
Norway--arrived in North America and founded the
settlement Vinland, located in modern-day Canada.
Today, we celebrate his historic voyage and remember
those who journeyed to America from far-away lands.

Our Nation's founding history is marked by millions of
individuals who faced great hardship and difficulty as
they pursued a brighter future abroad. As explorers,
they did not know what they would find, but they were
determined not to turn back, in order to learn what lay
beyond the setting sun. This same spirit lived within
Leif Erikson, and it has inspired countless others who
venture from their homes in search of opportunity,
uncertain of the possibilities and challenges that
await them.

Today, our Nation continues to welcome those
descendents of Leif Erikson to our shores. Nordic
Americans have contributed immeasurably to the success
of America. Their cultural accomplishments have
enriched the diversity of our country. And their
pioneering spirit continues to embody our Nation's
unbounded enthusiasm for discovery and learning.

To honor Leif Erikson and celebrate our 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, BARACK OBAMA, President of the
United States of America, do hereby proclaim October 9,
2009, as Leif Erikson Day, and I call upon all
Americans to observe this day with appropriate
ceremonies, activities, and programs to honor our
country's rich Nordic-American heritage.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
seventh 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.