US President Donald Trump hosted a celebration of Greek Independence Day at the White House on Monday, March 24 acknowledging the enduring influence of Hellenic culture and the contributions of Greek Americans to the United States.
Addressing an audience from the Greek American community, Trump declared, “The legacy of the Greeks is all around us. It surrounds us,” before signing a proclamation designating March 25 as Greek Independence Day in the United States, in honour of “204 years of glorious Greek sovereignty and freedom.”
He praised the Greek American community for their “exceptional courage, patriotism, and tremendous skill”, adding, “Under this administration, we will continue to honour the virtues, ideals, and spirit of this magnificent heritage – From the Golden Age of Greece to the Golden Age of America.”
Trump noted the sizeable Greek American population in the US, now numbering over three million, calling them “perhaps the greatest gift we have inherited from this amazing culture.”
Joined by Archbishop Elpidophoros of America, the President reflected on the historical significance of 25 March 1821, saying, “Greek patriots began their noble struggle to reclaim their destiny from the grip of a foreign empire, a very powerful foreign empire.”
He also expressed confidence in the Greek people, stating, “We’re doing well, and the Greeks are doing well. They’ll always do well.”
Acknowledging key Greek American figures in his administration, Trump singled out Michael Kratsios, Christos Marafatsos, Gus Bilirakis, Mike Haridopoulos, Jimmy Patronis, and Reince Priebus for praise.
Kimberly Guilfoyle, his nominee for US Ambassador to Greece, was also present, describing the potential appointment as “the honour and privilege of a lifetime […] to serve a country that I love so much, that is so close to my heart.”
“We celebrate and cherish our rich history and our enduring bond between the United States and Greece,” she said, reaffirming Trump’s commitment to “religious freedom and liberty and for the enduring alliance between Greece and the United States.”
Source: Ekathimerini
