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Barack Obama lights national tree at White House, remembers California victims

Barack Obama lights national tree at White House, remembers California victims

By :  DC Correspondent
Update: 2015-12-04 08:45 GMT
President Barack Obama and his family led the lighting of the National Christmas Tree on Thursday, with charity, thanks, and a moment of reflection for the victims of Wednesday's shooting.
Actress Reese Witherspoon served as host. Musicians Crosby, Stills and Nash, Aloe Blacc, Kelsea Ballerini and Fall Out Boy also performed.
As a backdrop to the ceremony, the US flag flew at half-staff atop the White House, on Obama’s orders, in remembrance of the victims.
The festive ceThe festive ceremony was held under somber circumstances following Wednesday’s events in California.remony was held under somber circumstances following Wednesday’s events in California.
The President, his wife, Michelle, daughters Malia and Sasha, and his mother-in-law, Marian Robinson, together flipped a switch and illuminated the Christmas tree near the White House.
'Their loss is our loss, too, for we’re all one American family. We look out for each other in good times, and in bad. And they should know that all of us care about them this holiday season,' he said.
'Now, this is, of course, the most wonderful time of the year. But we would be remiss not to take a moment to remember our fellow Americans whose hearts are heavy tonight – who grieve for loved ones, especially in San Bernardino, California,' Obama
Using a moment in the festive holiday setting to address the victims of Wednesday's deadly shooting spree in California, Obama struck a more somber tone, cautioning Americans to "summon the spirit of togetherness" this holiday season.
Flanked by his wife, two daughters and mother-in-law, Obama led the countdown in windy President's Park, across the street from their home at the White House, in a celebration that included performances by pop singer Aloe Blacc and rock band Fall
"Five, four, three, two, one. Merry Christmas, everybody!" Obama said as the national tree took sparkle for the 93rd year.
Barack Obama lights national tree at White House, remembers California victims

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