Members of the U.S. Army park a Bradley Fighting Vehicle in front of the Lincoln Memorial. Photo: Mark Wilson/Getty Images
Organizers have stepped up security and readied battle tanks, fighter jets and fireworks for President Trump's Fourth of July extravaganza in Washington, D.C., per NPR.
Why it matters: July 4 has been seen as a nonpartisan occasion, but Trump has inserted himself into the event. He tweeted military leaders are "thrilled" he's honoring U.S. forces. Retired generals told Politico he's politicizing the Independence Day celebration. The taxpayer cost hasn't been disclosed, per ABC News. Here's how people have been preparing for the event in Washington, D.C., in photos.
Workers prepare the stage for President Trump's address at the Lincoln Memorial. Photo: Mark Wilson/Getty ImagesWorkers install a security fence in the Reflecting Pool in front of the Lincoln Memorial. Photo: Mark Wilson/Getty ImagesCode Pink activist Medea Benjamin speaks during a news conference at the Lincoln Memorial to protest President Trump's "Salute to America" event Photo: Mark Wilson/Getty ImagesPresident Trump's supporters rally on Pennsylvania Avenue on the north side of the White House. Photo: Chip Somodevilla/Getty ImagesM1A1 Abrams tanks on rail cars in Washington, D.C., ahead of the "Salute to America" event. Photo: Mark Wilson/Getty ImagesPresident Trump is due to address the nation from the Lincoln Memorial at 6:30pm Thursday. Photo: Caroline Brehman/CQ Roll CallThe Washington Post reports the National Park Service diverted nearly $2.5 million to cover costs for this event, citing 2 people familiar with the matter. Photo: Saul Loeb/AFP/Getty Images"Salute to America" organizers say the event is all about honoring the U.S. military. Photo: Saul Loeb/AFP/Getty ImagesPeyton Sherwood has 400 "Trump baby" balloons to sell in D.C., and protesters plan to fly a "Trump baby" blimp during the event. Photo: Astrid Riecken For The Washington Post via Getty Images
