I am pleased to send warm greetings to all those gathered to celebrate Cinco de Mayo.

May 5th marks the triumph of the spirit of freedom for the people of Mexico. The victory of General Ignacio Zaragoza and his Mexican troops over the superior French forces at the Battle of Puebla served as a stirring reminder of the determination to win the fight for Mexico's freedom from foreign intervention. The Cinco de Mayo display of courage and purpose is a source of pride for all freedom-loving people.

We Americans cherish our deep historical, cultural, economic, and, in many cases, family ties with Mexico and Latin America. Cinco de Mayo cele-brations remind us how much Hispanics have influenced and enriched the United States. Hispanic Americans contribute to the shared traditions that are part of our history, including entrepreneurship, a sense of com-munity where neighbor helps neighbor, faith, and love of family. On this special day, I encourage Americans to reaffirm the ties of culture and friendship we share with the people of Mexico and with Hispanic Americans.

As you enjoy the day with parades, folkloric dancing, and other festive activities, Laura joins me in sending best wishes for a joyous celebration.

George W. Bush