March 14, 1984
Nancy and I wish everyone a joyous St. Patrick's Day. For the Irish and all the sons and daughters
of Erin the world over, this is truly a festive day filled with pride and renewed hope for the future.
It gives us an occasion to acknowledge the special qualities brought to our shores by those who
traveled from distant and lovely Ireland.
Like so many of the Irish before and after him, my great-grandfather, Michael Reagan, heard, in
the words of a favorite song, ``. . . a whisper of a country that lies beyond the sea, where rich and
poor stand equal in the light of freedom's day.'' He and millions like him left home and family in
Ireland to make their way to this country. While they came seeking the bounty of America, they
brought with them a rich Irish heritage, a strong faith in God, and a love of liberty. They came
imbued with sustaining talents great enough to make them an integral part of their new home and
to spark a nurturing and enduring friendship between the peoples of Ireland and America.
The annual observance of St. Patrick's Day provides a fine opportunity for all of us to warm our
hearts in remembrance of the bonds of history, family, and tradition that have come to us from the
Emerald Isle. We join Irish Americans throughout the land in celebrating their truly singular
contribution to our way of life.
Ronald Reagan