July 4: Trump's 'Salute to America' celebration features flypast, armoured vehicles and music
'We celebrate our history, our people, and the heroes who proudly defend our flag'
President Donald Trump sang the praises of the US military and American heroes of the past two and a half centuries Thursday as he skirted politics in a rousing Independence Day speech in Washington.
"Today, we come together as one nation with this very special Salute to America. We celebrate our history, our people, and the heroes who proudly defend our flag -- the brave men and women of the United States military!" Trump said.
'Salute to America'
Karen Pence, US Vice President Mike Pence, First Lady Melania Trump, US President Donald Trump, acting Defense Secretary Mark Esper and the Chairman of The Joint Chiefs of Staff Joseph Dunford stand during the "Salute to America" Fourth of July event.
Americans gather at Lincoln Memorial
Crowds take images with their smartphones of the fly-over.
Marching band
A marching band performs under rain during the National Independence Day Parade at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington.
Blue Angels
US Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron, the Blue Angels, fly past Lincoln Memorial.
US Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron
US Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron, the Blue Angels
Marine One helicopter
A new Marine One helicopter (C) and two Ospreys
F-18s
The Blue Angels (six F-18s) fly overhead as people gather on the National Mall.
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