Pasco Reporter

Earlier this week, U.S. Congressman Gus Bilirakis met with the Honorable Kyriakos Mitsotakis, Prime Minister of Greece, to accept the Grand Commander of the Order of the Phoenix Award. The Order of the Phoenix, established in 1926, is awarded to Greeks who have distinguished themselves in public administration, science, commerce, industry, shipping, and the arts and letters. It is also conferred on foreigners who have contributed to enhancing Greece’s stature abroad in these fields.

During his tenure in the United States Congress, Representative Bilirakis has been a leader in strengthening the bond between the US and its allies in the Mediterranean. He serves as Co-Chair of the Congressional Caucus on Hellenic Affairs and founding Co-Chair of the Congressional Hellenic Israel Alliance (CHIA). In this capacity, he co-authored both the Eastern Mediterranean Security and Energy Partnership Act and the US-Greece Defense and Interparliamentary Partnership Act, which were signed into law. These laws strengthened defense partnerships by supporting Greek military modernization and multilateral security efforts among Cyprus, Greece, Israel, and the United States.

“As the grandson of Greek immigrants, I am proud to be one of nearly two million Americans who are fortunate enough to be able to claim Greek ancestry. As the birthplace of democracy, Greece’s long and rich heritage has greatly influenced Western philosophy and democratic political systems around the globe. For more than two centuries, the modern Greek state has promoted liberty, peace, and human rights and has played a critical role as an ally of the United States and a steadfast NATO partner in the Eastern Mediterranean. As a proud Greek American inspired by my heritage, I am honored to receive this award and will continue my work to ensure mutual peace and prosperity for both our nations,” said Congressman Bilirakis.