Washington, D.C: US President Donald Trump used America’s 250th Independence Day celebration at the National Mall to pay tribute to the country’s military heroes, veterans and national icons, highlighting their contributions to the nation’s history.
During his address, Trump described the United States as a united nation and said, “We are ONE PEOPLE, ONE FAMILY, with ONE FLAG — and as our Declaration of Independence tells us, we are all made in the image of one Almighty God.”
The President also showcased one of the earliest American flags, saying it represented the Stars and Stripes that flew after the British surrendered at Yorktown. He added, “Ever since, the entire world has been on notice that Americans will never let anyone take our Freedom away.”
The ceremony honoured several distinguished veterans, including Vietnam War hero Colonel Paris Davis, Pearl Harbor survivor Captain Ken Schubring, 107-year-old D-Day veteran Arthur Rose, Korean War veterans Cpl. Patrick Finn and PFC Rudy Meekins, and US Army Kyle Key, a descendant of Francis Scott Key.
Trump also paid tribute to American astronauts, recognising their role in expanding the nation’s achievements through space exploration and honouring their contribution to the country’s legacy.
Trump also reaffirmed his opposition to communism, stating, “America will NEVER be a Communist country.”
He further said, “Communism is a loser, and it always will be. The communist system is the opposite of the American system, and the communist system has never worked. Our warriors did not fight communism on battlefields across the world, only to have that menace rear its ugly head right back here in America.”
The President also recognised Gold Star Families before thanking people who remained at the celebration despite severe weather and temporary evacuation caused by lightning.
