President Donald Trump addressed a large crowd on the National Mall late Saturday night during celebrations marking the United States' 250th anniversary. He praised American heritage, honored veterans, and warned against communism.
Thunderstorms delayed the event, but Trump spoke after the weather cleared. He described the country as "the hope, the promise, the light, and the glory among all of the nations of the world" and said its destiny is "written by God."
The president recognized Korean War veterans Cpl. Patrick Finn and PFC Rudy Meekins for their service at the Chosin Reservoir. He displayed historic American flags and highlighted the role of veterans over 250 years.
Trump also condemned communism, calling it a "menace" and "like a cancer" that must be removed. He stated that the United States "will NEVER be a Communist country" and that its warriors had not fought abroad only for the ideology to return at home.
