President Trump [Greek Independence Day Celebration]: When America declared our independence two hundred and fifty years ago, our founding fathers drew profound inspiration from the example of ancient Greece, and when the modern Greeks declared their own independence from a foreign empire, a generation later, in 1821, they, in turn, looked to a place called America. Ever since, the United States and the Hellenic Republic have stood side by side as two proud and thriving nations, upholding the western traditions born in Greece more than two thousand years ago.
President Trump: The debt that America and all of western civilization owes to the Greeks is ancient and eternal, and to this day, American soldiers plunge into combat strengthened by the legends of Spartan Warriors, American students still learn from the immortal wisdom of Socrates, the father of philosophy, and Aristotle, the inventor of science. And under the Trump administration, we are reaffirming a sacred Greek principal that goes all the way back to a rocky hillside in the heart of ancient Athens, that only citizens can vote in our elections.
President Trump: Like so many Americans before us, the Trump administration is also drawing inspiration from the renowned Greek builders and engineers whose works have stood the test of time; incredibly, too. Instead of ugly boxes of brutal concrete, we're bringing back marble columns and restoring classical architecture to our nation's capital, to Make America Beautiful Again.
President Trump: As America celebrates our two hundred and fiftieth anniversary this year, we remember that without the victory at Marathon, we might never have the victory at Yorktown. Without Athens, we might never have had the Philadelphia. Today we remember our ancient heritage, we honor the origins of our republic, we celebrate our cherished friendship with the Greeks, and we celebrate our Greek-American Patriots who are helping to Make America Great Again.
Archbishop Elpidophoros: Remember O Lord, our pious and faithful president, whom you have allowed to govern on Earth, and all those in public service. Equip him with the armor of truth, and with the shield of your good pleasure. Protect him in times of war, like now. Strengthen his arm, and exalt his right hand. Make his presidency strong, and subdue all hostile nations that thirst for war. Grant him profound and lasting peace. Whisper in his heart, good things about your church and all your people, so that he may perform his duties in tranquility, and we may live a serene and peaceful life in all piety and modesty. Remember O Lord, our brothers and sisters in government, and all civil servants, and the armed forces., Preserving your goodness to those who are good, in your kindness, make good those who are able. For you are the source of life and goodness, and to we ascribe all glory. Amen. God Bless America!
No, but Jim did say there may be some downtime.