Trump hails 'incredible' July 4 crowds in DC, says America is 'stronger than ever'

WASHINGTON, DC: President Donald Trump celebrated what he described as overwhelming public enthusiasm for America's 250th Independence Day, declaring that Washington, DC, was drawing "incredible" crowds ahead of his highly anticipated address at the Lincoln Memorial.

In a Truth Social post, Trump said the turnout reflected a renewed sense of patriotism, praised the military air shows, and promised repairs to the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool after the holiday weekend.

The president also told supporters he would speak at approximately 10 pm from the Lincoln Memorial as festivities across the National Mall continued, featuring military flyovers, concerts, and one of the largest fireworks displays ever organized for the nation's Independence Day.

Trump praises patriotic Independence Day turnout

Trump said the intense summer heat had not prevented Americans from gathering in large numbers for the historic celebration.

"Despite the heat, which isn't as bad as predicted, the crowds in DC are incredible," he wrote, adding that Americans' "love of our country has never been stronger."

He also applauded the military demonstrations, saying the air shows were "at a level never seen before" and praising the pilots and equipment participating in the America 250 festivities.

The celebration marked the largest federally organized Independence Day event in decades, commemorating 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776.

Reflecting Pool repairs promised afterward

Alongside celebrating the event, Trump addressed the condition of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, saying it had endured damage caused by what he called "vandal thugs."

"The Reflecting Pool looks great, despite all it went through," Trump wrote, adding that his administration would "quickly drain and fix the damage done right after this big weekend."

The Reflecting Pool has previously undergone restoration projects after sustaining damage from heavy public use, demonstrations and environmental wear.

Trump concluded his message by wishing Americans a happy Independence Day and declaring, "Our country is stronger than ever."

His remarks came as thousands gathered on the National Mall for concerts, ceremonial events, military flyovers and a fireworks display that organizers billed as one of the largest in American history, capping a nationwide celebration of the country's semiquincentennial.