'I love America': WWII veterans, thousands of patriots brave storm to celebrate America's 250th

WASHINGTON, DC: America's 250th anniversary celebration on the National Mall produced some of the most emotional moments of the year's biggest national holiday, as thousands of supporters returned to Washington in pouring rain after a severe storm delay to mark Independence Day with President Donald Trump, joined by World War II veterans whose tributes brought crowds to their feet.

The ‘Salute to America 250’ event was temporarily halted when severe weather swept through the capital, forcing attendees to evacuate the Mall. But within hours, thousands streamed back, chanting "USA! USA!" in the rain, with a line stretching more than a mile down the street before the gates had even reopened.

Veterans steal the night as crowds erupt

Among the most powerful moments of the evening came from World War II veteran Corporal Wilbur Jack Miles, 103, who was filmed reacting to the sight of tens of thousands of Americans gathered to mark the anniversary.

His words, delivered with visible emotion, drew thunderous cheers. "We GOT IT! Today, I am just so happy, ALL THE PEOPLE, the land to be free! To be here and to LOVE AMERICA, I love that!" Miles said.

Also honored was George "Buddy" Taggar, who turned 100 years old on July 4, sharing his birthday with the nation's 250th anniversary.

Taggar was previously recognized by Trump at this year's State of the Union address for helping liberate a Japanese internment camp in the Philippines 81 years .

Speaking directly to the crowd, Taggar marked the dual occasion with characteristic grace. "Today is July 4th, 2026 and also is my 100th birthday.

I’d  like to thank everyone for all the well wishes and all the things that have been called to me. And it also is the 250th birthday of our country," he said. "May we have peace in the world."

Crowd breaks into national anthem during storm shelter

While the storm raged outside, hundreds of those who had taken shelter inside a building spontaneously broke into a rendition of the national anthem together. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins captured the moment on video and shared it on X.

“Unfortunately, the weather may have disrupted parts of the celebration, but we were grateful to open the beautiful USDA building to provide shelter," Rollins wrote.

"And then this happened. These incredible patriots spontaneously broke into the National Anthem. I love my country."

Large crowds later chanted "USA" and sang the Star-Spangled Banner as they poured back onto the Mall ahead of Trump's speech and the evening's fireworks display.