Americas 250th birthday unites a divided nation: This is the dream of our forefathers
Americans from sea to shining sea united for a joyous celebration 250 years in the making as the Land of the Free marked a quarter-millennium of independence — and the birth of the once-radical notion to guarantee each and every inhabitant life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.President Trump kicked off America’s 250th birthday party Friday with a visit to Mount Rushmore in South Dakota as a prelude to his “Salute to America” bash in the nation’s capital.Supersonic jets are set to scream across the skies over Washington throughout the afternoon and evening Saturday, culminating with flyovers by Trump’s new Air Force One and a B-1 stealth bomber, scheduled for just after the president speaks, followed by a world record-smashing fireworks spectacle.Trump’s remarks are expected to be a mix of reflection on the last 250 years as well as outlining his vision for the next 5, 10 or 15 years.New York City has also been a hotbed of patriotic festivities, and revelers both local and from out of town are out in force and ready to party like it’s 1776.Wendell Mackey, 64, who was in New York City for the first time ever specifically to celebrate America’s milestone moment with his wife, Heather, 63, was showing off his love of the country with a T-shirt festooned with Old Glory — and for a very good reason.“My grandparents fled Hitler before World War II and came through Ellis Island and America welcomed them and gave them a home.If it wasn’t for them and if it wasn’t for America, I wouldn’t be here.”Wendell, who is of Polish descent, said the occasion of the United States’ 250th birthday is so big it’s become a global affair.“I’ve met people from Australia, Japan and Germany who told me they are here to celebrate our anniversary with us.
That makes me feel proud, even with different lifestyles, different backgrounds we mesh together, we come together and celebrate together,” he said.“I’m just proud to be an American, a country t...