U.S. Rep. Gus Bilirakis, R-Palm Harbor, was one of the few members of Congress to attend the celebration of Greek Independence Day Friday afternoon at the White House.

"Greek Americans have really enriched our culture and enriched our nation's heritage. They're a lively bunch, as you know -- but an important group of people in our country, and that's really what we celebrate here," President Bush said. "We celebrate our friendship with the nation of Greece."

Bush, who welcomed many Greek dignitaries in the East Room, also took  the opportunity to thank "Greek Americans who wear the uniform of the United States."