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Philip T. Reeker, Deputy Chief of Mission

Remarks at the 100th Anniversary of the George Washington Statue in Budapest

September 16, 2006

Dr. Szili, Mayor Demszky, Ladies and Gentlemen,

Every nation on Earth has sent immigrants to the United States. Among these, Hungarians stand out as some of the most famous and gifted in arts, sciences, and public service. They have enriched American culture and society, and we are grateful for the contributions they have made, and continue to make. I am personally grateful that my Grandfather immigrated to New York in 1919.

Hungarians came to America for different reasons, but all of them agreed on one thing: democratic values and personal liberties were the foundation for all successes that came after.

Today, we gather to commemorate one of the great Americans whose career is synonymous with the struggle for freedom and just government. But we also recall that this statue of George Washington would not be here without the dedication of Hungarian-Americans whose love of liberty inspired them to commission it. In choosing to erect this, the first full-size statue of George Washington in Europe, the Hungarian donors knew that it would serve as a reminder that freedom is seldom free. George Washington symbolizes the struggle, sacrifice, and vision to achieve what all people deserve as a birthright – just government and protection of basic rights.  

David McCullough, a biographer of George Washington, visited Budapest last year and gave a talk on his book entitled 1776. In his book, he notes, “George Washington was a patriot in his own way, with his own strengths and limitations. But what he achieved with his troops, outnumbered by one of the world’s most feared armies, was a miracle to remember.” Perhaps the Hungarians who commissioned this statue were already thinking of Washington’s example for their homeland, and the battles for liberation and freedom to come.          

Certainly, President Bush emphasized just such an understanding in his speech here on June 22. The President recalled another statue, a bust of Kossuth Lajos displayed in the U.S. Capitol. Recalling Kossuth, the President said, “Those who fight for liberty are heroes not only in their own land, but of all free nations. All who love liberty are linked together across the generations, and across the world.”

As we gather here for the 100th anniversary of this statue, we cannot help but recall another anniversary taking place this year. It has been 50 years since Hungary began its ultimately successful fight for independence and democracy. It was a struggle that showed, in the words of President Bush, “Liberty can be delayed, but it cannot be denied. And as people across the world step forward to claim their own freedom, they will take inspiration from your example, and draw hope from your success.”

Reflecting on the vision of Washigton, Kossuth, and the freedom fighters of ’56, our ceremony today proves that freedom has many heroes, and they are recognized by all those who cherish democratic values.

Thank you.