JSOnline: Saturday [marked] George Washington's 282nd birthday...We need to be reminded that America didn't 'just happen.' And one way we can and should do that is by remembering and celebrating George Washington's birthday. Keep our first president "first in war, first in peace and first in the hearts of his countrymen."
Regrettably, in too many ways, we find that Washington's legacy is fading away. Two hundred years ago, every American knew his bravery, leadership and impeccable character. But not so today. A survey by the American Council of Trustees and Alumni shows that college graduates more readily identify Lady Gaga than Washington at Yorktown.
A zealous handful of patriots – led by Washington – risked everything to create the world's first true republic. Too many Americans simply take this for granted.
Go to MountVernon.org to learn more about our first and greatest President.