Page:United States Statutes at Large Volume 124.djvu/4740

 124 STAT. 4714 PROCLAMATION 8582—OCT. 8, 2010 bold courage echoes in the daring and intrepid spirit of the pioneers who built and shaped our young country, and in the determination, self-reliance, and innovation of the Nordic settlers who made enduring contributions to the American character. Today, Nordic Americans im- measurably enrich our national life as neighbors and leaders in com- munities across America. Guided by the strength and resolve of Leif Erikson and the countless Nordic immigrants who came in his wake, let us steadfastly reach for the promise of tomorrow. It is their spirit of exploration and progress that helped forge our great country, and that will continue to guide us as we strive for a better and brighter future. To honor Leif Erikson and celebrate our Nordic-American heritage, the Congress, by joint resolution (Public Law 88–566) approved on Sep- tember 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, 2010, as Leif Erikson Day. I call upon all Americans to observe this day with appropriate ceremonies, activities, and programs to honor our rich Nordic-Amer- ican heritage. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this eighth day of October, in the year of our Lord two thousand ten, and of the Inde- pendence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty- fifth. BARACK OBAMA Proclamation 8582 of October 8, 2010 General Pulaski Memorial Day, 2010 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation From before our Nation’s founding until today, daring individuals have fought to defend America with unwavering devotion. Casimir Pulaski was a Polish patriot, yet he laid down his life in defense of American independence during the Revolutionary War. Each year, on October 11, Americans pause to remember this champion of liberty who fought val- iantly for the freedom of Poland and the United States, and we proudly reflect upon our rich Polish-American heritage. As a young man, Brigadier General Casimir Pulaski witnessed the oc- cupation of Poland by foreign troops and fought for his homeland’s freedom, determined to resist subjugation. During his subsequent exile to France, he learned of our nascent struggle for independence, and volunteered his service to our cause. Pulaski arrived in America in 1777 and served in the American Cavalry under the command of Gen- eral George Washington. Valued for his vast military experience, Gen- eral Pulaski led colonists on horseback with admirable skill, earning a reputation as the ‘‘father of American Cavalry.’’ Pulaski was mortally wounded during the siege of Savannah, and he died from his wounds on October 11, 1779.