In Consul General Mykletun’s speech he underlined that Erikson’s life in many ways illustrates the American spirit – the courage to seek a better life somewhere else. For this reason Erikson has become an American hero. Also, Leiv Erikson is a Norwegian hero, because he represents a kind of achievement Norwegian people admire greatly, namely the courage to set out on a challenging adventure, in spite of tough weather and grim predictions.
The Viking Chapter of the Norwegian Society of Texas has as its main purpose to enjoy, preserve and promote its Norwegian Heritage. The celebration of Leiv Erikson Day is one of the larger annual events of the Norwegian Society of Texas. The Norwegian Consul General, Dr. Mykletun, held a speech on the topic of where Norway is today and where it might be tomorrow, focusing on today’s economic and political opportunities and challenges for Norway.
The Consul General’s visit to Dallas also included a tour of Dallas’ outstanding medical facilities. Like Houston, Dallas has world leading medical research and treatment facilities. Meetings and discussions took place both at the Baylor University Medical Center and UTSW Harold Simmons Cancer Research Center, where the Consul General got to see a demonstration of the center’s newest technology within the field of X-Ray instruments. This visit was organized and hosted by Norway’s Honorary Consul in North Texas, Mr. Ed Fjordbak.