Governor of Alaska: "As Governor of Alaska. which has only recently been accorded full membership in the Union of States. I am pleased to comment on the 15th anniversary of Philippine independence. "There is more than coincidence in the fact that our Nation on the same day celebrates its 185th birthday. The Filipinos are our closest Asian friends. and in all Asia their Government is the most nearly like our own. "During the last great war the soldiers of the Philippines fought side by side with ours in a great struggle marked by deeds of magnificent bravery. "The Philippines are democracys Asiatic show window. Our friendship is one which must always endure for our nations have common interests and we must advance and prosper together or the cause of freedom will suffer. "Here in Alaska. we count among our valued citizens those of your nation who have come to make a home in a new and rugged land. They daily offer evidence of sincere devotion to public interest and to freedom and democracy.