Washington, D.C (US), July 5, 2026, BNN Web Staff: US President Donald Trump marked the 250th anniversary of American independence with a patriotic address at the ‘Salute to America’ celebration on the National Mall, praising the nation’s founding ideals and declaring, “Long live the cause of Independence!”
Addressing thousands gathered for the landmark event, Trump described the anniversary as a celebration of the courage and sacrifice of the Founding Fathers and reaffirmed his vision for America’s future.
“We are made in the courage, fire, flesh, and blood of the best and the bravest people this world has ever produced. Tonight, we pledge allegiance to the flag they gave us… God bless the immortal patriots of 1776, and long live the cause of Independence,” he said.
Trump said the United States had served as a beacon of hope and liberty for the world over the past 250 years and called the celebration a tribute to “freedom’s triumph over tyranny.”
He asserted that the country today is “stronger, freer, richer, safer and prouder than ever before,” adding that with God’s help, America would continue to lead the world.
Recalling the adoption of the Declaration of Independence in Philadelphia in 1776, Trump praised the nation’s founders for proclaiming the principles of equality, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
He also paid tribute to the 56 signatories of the Declaration of Independence, saying they risked everything to secure freedom for future generations.
During the ceremony, Trump displayed one of the earliest American flags and referred to the British surrender at the Battle of Yorktown, saying it symbolised the nation’s enduring commitment to defending its freedom.
The address formed the centrepiece of the administration’s “Freedom 250” celebrations, which have been held throughout 2026 to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States.
