By Sandi Moynihan
WASHINGTON – In celebration of Independence Day, service members were treated to an afternoon of food and fun at a picnic on the South Lawn of the White House.
In addition to feasting on a tasty spread of Fourth of July classics like burgers and hot dogs, families listened to performances by military bands, enjoyed a face-painting station, visited the USO Mobile, played lawn games and heard President Donald Trump give his Independence Day remarks.
“Each of you here today represents that rare combination of patriotism, virtue, and courage that our citizens have always – and I mean always – admired and that our enemies have always feared,” Trump said.
“At this moment, your brothers and sisters in arms are posted around the globe, fighting our enemies and standing watch to protect our nation … We are thanking them, praying for them, and saluting them for their selfless sacrifice.”
After the president’s speech, military families had the opportunity to shake hands with the president along with first lady Melania Trump, Vice President Mike Pence and second lady Karen Pence, who also stopped by the afternoon’s festivities.
In the late evening, the patriotic event concluded with a special viewing of the Washington fireworks show, often considered one of the best Fourth of July fireworks displays in the nation.
Every day, America’s service members selflessly put their lives on the line to keep us safe and free. Please take a moment to let our troops know how much we appreciate their service and sacrifice.
