By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation
Today, we gather as a nation to celebrate President George Washington—our quintessential American hero, the embodiment of the American Revolution, and a steadfast advocate for liberty. On this momentous occasion of President Washington’s Birthday, especially as we reflect on 250 years of American independence, we honor the father of our country. With profound pride and gratitude, we recognize his unwavering commitment to law, liberty, and the common good. As we navigate the path toward the next 250 years of our remarkable American narrative, we pledge to cultivate a future that reflects his grace, emulates his courage, and upholds his steadfast dedication to the ideals of freedom.
George Washington was born in the Virginia Colony in 1732. He began his military career as a Lieutenant Colonel in 1754, engaging in the early conflicts of the French and Indian War. His political career took root in the Virginia House of Burgesses, where he grew increasingly vocal against the British Crown’s oppressive taxation and tyranny. Rallying a diverse group of farmers, frontiersmen, blacksmiths, and merchants, he formed the Continental Army and led them to triumph at Yorktown, decisively defeating the British and their Hessian allies.
Throughout the highs and lows of the Revolutionary War, Washington exhibited remarkable dignity and determination. When despair loomed during Christmas of 1776, he inspired his troops to cross the icy Delaware River, claiming victory at Trenton. Even amidst insurmountable odds and the threat of mutiny during the harsh winter at Valley Forge, he remained steadfast and resilient. Despite his weariness after years of warfare and public service, he selflessly continued to answer the call of duty. When Europe descended into conflict, he prioritized our national interests and the pursuit of peace. Moreover, during the Whiskey Rebellion, he firmly upheld the rule of law and the Constitution, showcasing his confidence and strength. Time and again, when many would have succumbed to despair, Washington pressed on with unwavering resolve.
Although he yearned for a quiet retirement, Washington presided over the Constitutional Convention at Independence Hall, later being unanimously elected as our first President in 1789. He served two terms before voluntarily stepping down and returning to his cherished Mount Vernon, thereby establishing a crucial precedent for the fledgling Republic. Following his retirement, King George III, once his political adversary, recognized him as “the greatest man of the age.” By the time of his passing, he was revered across the globe.
Among Washington’s enduring legacies is his insistence that for America to be great, it must be a nation that prays and gives thanks to our Creator. He famously stated in his Farewell Address that “virtue or morality is a necessary spring of popular government,” emphasizing that faith in God is essential for our prosperity and strength.
Driven by relentless tenacity until his last breath, Washington was a stalwart champion of American sovereignty, an astute unifier and tactician, and a man of profound faith and integrity. His visionary leadership is indelibly etched into the essence of our Nation.
Upon Washington’s death in December of 1799, the eloquent Henry Lee proclaimed him “first in war, first in peace, and first in the hearts of his countrymen.” Even today, he retains that esteemed place in our hearts and minds, with his courage and resolve being the birthright of every American citizen. As we pay homage to our inaugural Commander in Chief and set our sights on the next 250 years of liberty, we commit to constructing a future that honors his legacy, cherishes his wisdom, and unites America as one magnificent Nation under God.
As we celebrate what would have been his 294th birthday and commemorate 250 years of American freedom and independence, let us pause to express our gratitude for President Washington’s noble life of public service.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, DONALD J. TRUMP, President of the United States of America, by the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim February 16, 2026, as a reserved holiday commemorating President George Washington’s Birthday.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this sixteenth day of February, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-six, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and fiftieth.
DONALD J. TRUMP
