For the final time as president, George W. Bush led the countdown Thursday night to the glowing unveiling of the nearly 42-foot Christmas tree that overlooks the White House.
“Everybody join. Five, four, three, two, one,” Bush shouted along with thousands of guests attending the ceremony. The crowd cheered heartily when the nearly 42-foot tree on the Ellipse by the Washington Monument sparkled with yellow lights and a glowing star.
Before the lights went on, he took time to remember U.S. troops who are risking their lives far from home.
“Over the past eight years, my greatest honor as president has been serving as commander in chief of the finest military ever known,” Bush said. “They serve with courage and with honor, and they”ve made incredible sacrifices.”
Bush also talked on stage with a man dressed as Santa Claus and brought up life after the White House.
“You may have heard that Laura and I are going to have plenty of time next year,” he told Santa. “The problem is we”re going to be short on an airplane” after leaving the White House. “Have you got an extra sleigh?”
Bush was treated to a Christmas song from Santa: “When It”s Christmas Time in Texas,” sung by Santa himself.
“There”s nothing like Christmas in Crawford, isn”t that right Mr. President,” Santa said, referring to the Texas town where Bush has a ranch. Bush actually plans to live in a North Dallas neighborhood after leaving office in January.
