Programs and Events
American Embassy Will Open Condolence Book To Mourn Former U.S. President Gerald R. Ford
The Embassy of the United States of America in Helsinki will open a condolence book for members of the public who wish to write condolences following the death of former U.S. President Gerald R. Ford, who passed away on December 26, 2006, at the age of 93. Gerald R. Ford was the 38th President (1974-1977) and 40th Vice President (1973-1974) of the United States. The condolence book is available for signature from Wednesday, January 3 to Friday, January 5 from 10AM to 14PM. The book will be located at Gate B, 14 Itäinen Puistotie.
Referring to the passing of former President Ford, U.S. President George W. Bush said, ‘The American people will always admire Gerald Ford's devotion to duty, his personal character, and the honorable conduct of his administration. We mourn the loss of such a leader, and our 38th President will always have a special place in our Nation's memory. On behalf of all Americans, Laura and I offer our deepest sympathies to Betty Ford and all of President Ford's family. Our thoughts and prayers will be with them in the hours and days ahead.’
We also recall President Ford’s address before the CSCE Summit in Helsinki thirty-one years ago: ‘I must convey to the people of the Republic of Finland, on behalf of the 214 million people of the United States of America, a reaffirmation of the longstanding affection and admiration which all my countrymen hold for your brave and beautiful land. We are bound together by the most powerful of all ties, our fervent love for freedom and independence, which knows no homeland but the human heart. It is a sentiment as enduring as the granite rock on which this city stands and as moving as the music of Sibelius. Our visit here, though short, has brought us a deeper appreciation of the pride, industry and friendliness which Americans always associate with the Finnish nation.’
For additional information about the life of Gerald R. Ford, please visit the following website: http://www.fordlibrarymuseum.gov/grf/fordbiop.asp
For additional information, please contact the Public Affairs Section at 09-6162-5784 or 6162-5357.