Many distinguished themselves in the American Civil War with their grit and their bravery and their courage, earning the nickname, the “Fighting Irish.” And I know a lot about the Irish -- they fight. They’re tough. (Laughter.) I know a lot. I know more than I'm ever going to tell you. (Laughter.)
And when American Armed Forces joined the fight in Europe during World War II, 75 years ago, our heroic troops first stepped off ships in Belfast Harbor in Northern Ireland.
Throughout the centuries, hardworking Irish-Americans contributed mightily to America’s innovation and to America’s prosperity. They often overcame great hardship -- really, I mean, it's like the hardship they overcame for us, for our people, is inspiring and really helped a relatively young nation beyond what anyone really understands or knows. So we want to thank you -- just an amazing, an amazing history.