German-American Day
Today the National German-American Day is observed in the US.
This German-American heritage holiday commemorates the 13 German Mennonite families from Krefeld who landed in Philadelphia. These families founded Germantown, Pennsylvania on October 6, 1683. The settlement was the first German establishment in the original thirteen American colonies. This day was originally celebrated in the 19th century, but it fell out of favor during World War I. To honor the 300th anniversary of German-American immigration and culture into the United States, in 1983 President Ronald Reagan proclaimed October 6 as German-American Day. Congress approved, Reagan signed and proclaimed it in 1987. It has been commemorated each year since with Presidential Proclamations.
Yesterday Barack Obama has issued a proclamation to recognize the contribution German-Americans have made to the foundation of this country. Parts of this proclamation were:
“German Americans have shaped every sector of our society. More Americans can trace their roots to Germany than to any other nation, and elements of German heritage are embedded deeply in our country’s character. German Americans have, throughout our history, proven that our diversity is one of our greatest strengths.” (…) “Today, the alliance between the United States and Germany is one of the closest the world has ever known.” Here you can read the full proclamation.
Germans brought the Bratwurst. And the Sauerkraut. We brought the idea of kindergarten. Bill Gates has German heritage. Sandra Bullock does, too. Here are some more surprising facts about the biggest ethnic group in the US.
Celebrate accordingly! 
