George W. Bush

“ We honor the explorers who led the first Viking explorations at the beginning of the last millennium, and we pay tribute to the many Nordic pioneers who helped to explore and settle America's 19th Century frontiers. The Nordic and American peoples share the virtues of courage, resourcefulness, and self-reliance, and they have built nations based on the principles of liberty, justice, and equality.
Leif Erikson and his men braved the unknown and risked their lives to become the first Europeans to set foot on North American soil. ”

“ And, we are working closely with our Nordic Allies in NATO by helping to provide for the region's common defense and stability. These and other efforts to improve the world mark the citizens of the United States as a people possessing virtues that echo those of Leif Erikson and the first Vikings who landed on our northern shores. ”

“ As we reflect upon Erikson's groundbreaking achievements and marvel at the adversity and dangers he and his explorers endured, we are thankful for their great endeavor and recognize that achieving difficult goals requires people who are courageous and willing to sacrifice, who take action and take risks. ”