In its statement, the mission explained that Presidents’ Day was originally established to honor George Washington’s birthday, but has since evolved to celebrate the leadership and legacy of all US presidents and their impact on national and global history.
“Originally established to honor George Washington’s birthday, Presidents’ Day now celebrates all U.S. presidents and their leadership in shaping the nation’s history and positively influencing the world,” the embassy said.
Washington, the first president of the United States, is also credited with creating the first “Badge of Military Merit,” which later became the Purple Heart, a military decoration that continues to bear his image.