ACCESSION NUMBER:00000
FILE ID:96100804.WWE
DATE:10/08/96
TITLE:08-10-96  TEXT: CLINTON GREETING ON POLISH-AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH

TEXT:
(Praises Polish commitment to democratic ideals) (370)

Washington -- President Clinton has paid tribute to the contribution
of Polish-Americans to U.S. history and culture in a statement
honoring Polish-American Heritage Month.

Following is the text of the statement, released by the White House
October 8:

(Begin text)

POLISH AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH

October 1996

Warm greetings to everyone observing Polish American Heritage Month.
Many Americans proudly trace their roots to Poland, a land whose rich
and colorful past is rivaled only by the bright promise of its future.
This month, as we celebrate the many contributions that Americans of
Polish heritage have made to our nation's history and culture, we also
reaffirm the strong and friendly ties between the United States and
Poland.

Before America became a nation, Poles came to these shores in search
of liberty and opportunity, and their descendants have remained at the
forefront of efforts to keep America free, strong, and prosperous.
This year we celebrate the 250th anniversary of the birth of the great
Polish hero Tadeusz Kosciuszko, who helped secure the independence of
our fledgling republic during the Revolutionary War. Since that time,
millions of other men and women of Polish descent have invested their
hopes in America's bold experiment in self-government and, inspired by
faith in God and a devotion to democratic ideals, have worked hard to
ensure its success.

The deep cultural and familial ties between the peoples of the United
States and Poland have been strengthened by our shared values and
aspirations. For generations, Poles have demonstrated the same
reverence for individual rights and dignity that infuses our own
system of government. The United States supports Poland's democratic
transition and her people's efforts to establish a pluralistic society
and a free market economy. Poland and the United States are building a
new security for the twenty-first century, working together to prepare
for NATO's enlargement in an undivided Europe.

As we observe Polish American Heritage Month, I join all Americans in
thanking our fellow citizens of Polish descent for their countless
contributions to the strength and quality of our national life. Best
wishes to all for a memorable celebration.

WILLIAM J. CLINTON

(End text)
NNNN
 
.