WHEREAS, We recognize and honor on this day George Washington, the
father of our country and our state's namesake, who led our country
through the pains of its birth, and Abraham Lincoln, our sixteenth
president, who was called upon to preserve and perpetuate our nation;
and
WHEREAS, George Washington, born February 22, 1732, led the
Revolutionary Army with courage and fortitude, and then serving as the
first president of these United States, defined the office and remained
ever mindful of his actions and the ramifications carried by his deeds;
and
WHEREAS, Abraham Lincoln, born February 12, 1809, is remembered for
his connection with common men having risen from humble beginnings to
our nation's highest office, and as the savior of the Union, spending
his first term fighting the Civil War, and then turning at the war's
conclusion to rebuilding the union and famously emphasizing "With
malice toward none; with charity for all"; and
WHEREAS, Abraham Lincoln remains one of the most quoted presidents,
having said of the relevant governing virtue of responsibility: "I
freely acknowledge myself the servant of the people, according to the
bond of service – the United States Constitution; and that, as such, I
am responsible to them"; and
WHEREAS, It was in 1968 when federal legislation, the "Monday
Holidays Act," was passed to install the Presidents' Day celebration
that we have come to know and respect; and
WHEREAS, In 1985, the Washington State Legislature singled out the
third Monday in February as a day for commemorating the births of
Presidents Washington and Lincoln; and
WHEREAS, These presidents remain among the finest examples of
leadership, determination, and honor not only for political leaders but
for citizens everywhere;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That on this eighteenth day of
February 2008, the House of Representatives honor the first and
sixteenth Presidents of these United States for their immeasurable
contributions to, and noble sacrifices for, the cause of liberty,
equality, and justice.