President Obama hosts military families for July 4 fireworks

Barack Obama will share his first July 4 celebration at the White House with 1,200 military families.

Press Secretary Robert Gibbs said at Thursday’s White House briefing that the president would return to the White House from Camp David on Saturday so he could host a large party on the South Lawn for “military heroes.” The festivities will include a barbecue and music by the Marine Band.

The Fourth of July fireworks display in the nation’s capital takes place over the Washington Monument and the South Lawn of the White House and offers stunning views of the monument and the fireworks.

In addition to inviting military families to share in the festivities, Gibbs said the president has also asked White House staff to join in the celebration.

The First Family leaves Sunday for a trip to Russia, Italy, and Ghana.