Office of the Governor: Statement on George Washington Day

FROM THE OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR

February 15, 2010

Contact: Stacey Johnson
Phone: (804) 225-4260
E-mail: Stacey.Johnson@Governor.Virginia.Gov

RICHMOND- Governor Bob McDonnell issued the following statement today in recognition of George Washington Day in the Commonwealth of Virginia.

"Today the citizens of Virginia rightfully remember the Father of our Country, George Washington.

This great Commonwealth occupies a unique place in the history of our nation. From within these borders came the ideas and the leadership that turned a loose collection of coastal colonies into the greatest nation the world has ever known. America was born here. But among our Commonwealth's many contributions to our country, few can rival that of George Washington of Mount Vernon.

Washington's valor in battle is well-chronicled, his gracious character in all things well known, and his humility in positions of great power well-established. The nation's first President does not need his reputation burnished or defended. But, 200 years later, our nation does need his example made visible and remembered. All Virginians and Americans should study this great man whose personal example did as much for the future course of this nation as did any one document, or any single clash of arms.

It was Washington who led the Continental Army to victory over the British, and then, at the height of his power, put down his sword and returned home to Virginia. It was Washington who was placed in the Presidency by overwhelming public sentiment and acclaim and then, again, willingly stepped aside and quietly returned home. In a time of inception and uncertainty, when the residents of a young nation looked for answers as to what kind of government they had established, Washington's personal example provided the answer. This would be a nation of laws, governed by the people and with their consent necessary at all times. No one person would, or could, stand above the rules that applied to all. Citizens would serve in public office, and then return to private life. The civic character of this great Republic owes much to the personal actions of one great Virginian.

Upon Washington's passing in 1799, another Governor of Virginia, Henry 'Light Horse Harry' Lee, spoke the following words that have been permanently etched into the pages of our history. They should be read again today:

First in war, first in peace, and first in the hearts of his countrymen, he was second to none in humble and enduring scenes of private life. Pious, just humane, temperate, and sincere; uniform dignified, and commanding; his example was as edifying to all around him as were the effects of that example lasting correct throughout, vice shuddered in his presence and virtue always felt his fostering hand. The purity of his private charter gave effulgence to his public virtues. Such was the man for whom our nation mourns." ###