Clinton Lights National Tree
President Clinton lighted the national Christmas tree for the last time Monday and, before leaving for Ireland and Northern Ireland, wished for peace for that region.
"I hope we can finish the business of peace there and help America to give a gift to the rest of the world," Mr. Clinton said before lighting the national tree. The Colorado blue spruce, from York, Pa., was decorated with 125,000 lights, accents of gold garland and large golden balls, with red ribbons.
After lighting the tree, Mr. Clinton left Washington for his third visit to Ireland and Northern Ireland, where he will spend the next few days getting a firsthand update on the troubled peace program he helped negotiate.
This was the eighth year Mr. Clinton lighted the national Christmas tree and attended the accompanying Pageant of Peace. The first lady, Sen.-elect Hillary Rodham Clinton, and their daughter, Chelsea, also attended.
"Tonight, as we enjoy our last Christmas season in the White House and the last time I'll have a chance to be here at the lighting of the Christmas tree, we are profoundly grateful for the gift you and all the American people have given us, the privilege to serve these last eight years, to live in this marvelous old house, and to participate in wonderful ceremonies like this," Mr. Clinton said.
Mr. Clinton asked Americans to remember people serving in the U.S. military who won't be home for Christmas and to celebrate "the true meaning of the holidays by taking some time to give to those who need it most."
Several thousand people crowded around the Ellipse just south of the White House to witness the 77th consecutive lighting of the national Christmas tree and sing holiday carols.
The U.S. Navy Band accompanied young Welsh soprano Charlotte Church, country singers Billy Gilman and Kathy Mattea and the cast of Fosse in singing holiday songs. TV personality Al Roker, dressed as Santa Claus, was host for the evening.
Mr. Clinton and his family sat behind bulletproof glass during the outdoor event.