Why does Washington say he owes his country a debt of gratitude

Because he fought against the British for Independence which is why the 4th July is celebrated every year since that day he over threw them

Washington says he owes his country a debt of gratitude because he is grateful towards the country for bestowing upon him all the honors that he got to possess during his career as the president.

Explanation:

George Washington, the first president of the United States, served on the post for approximately 9 long years. He was always grateful to the people of America for choosing him as their president for two consecutive times. It is because he was grateful to towards the people of the country, he said in his farewell speech that he owes his country a debt of gratitude.