President Trump and the First Lady honored each branch of the U.S. military at a White House 4th of July picnic. The Marine band played as Sarah Sheffield sang the Star Spangled Banner to open the event.
“Happy fourth of July to everybody. Great day,” Trump said to the military crowd.
“Melania and I are honored to celebrate American independence with the heroes who protect American independence. The men, the women of the United States military, these are our finest. Thank you very much,” said Trump.
Vice President Mike Pence and Second Lady Karen Pence were in attendance, as were several members of the President’s cabinet.
The president gave this speech: “242 years ago on July 4, 1776 America’s founders adopted the Declaration of Independence and changed the course of human history, but our freedom exists only because there are brave Americans willing to give their lives to defend it and defend our great country.
American liberty has been earned through the blood, sweat, and sacrifice of American patriots. The immortal story of the American warrior is written in the fields of Gettysburg, the sands of Iwo Jima, the mountains of Afghanistan, and the snow of Valley Forge. It is the story of courage, honor, duty, loyalty, and love.
Today we are honored to recognize a few of the incredible men and women who serve our country and defend our great American flag.”
President Trump took time to introduce each honored representative from every branch. He stopped after each representative and thanked them for their service and incredible work for America.
Trump closed his remarks:
“To every service member here today and stationed around the world — they’re all watching — and to your incredible families — these are truly unbelievable people — thank you for keeping America safe, strong, proud, mighty, and free.
God bless you. God bless our military. And God bless America. Happy 4th of July. Thank you everybody. Thank you. Thank you.”
President Trump and first lady Melania Trump shook hands with people after the speech before waving to the crowd and heading back into the White House.