Scaled-Down Inauguration Events Honor Troops, Families

Scaled-Down Inauguration Events Honor Troops, Families
Dec 21, 2012
Stars and Stripes
by Leo Shane III

WASHINGTON -- President Barack Obama will honor troops serving overseas and military families in his inauguration festivities next month, an extension of the White House’s ongoing campaign to highlight their sacrifice.

An inaugural source says plans call for a pop concert for military children the weekend of the inauguration and an expanded Commander in Chief’s ball, one of only two official inaugural balls to be sponsored by the Presidential Inaugural Committee.

Planners have promised that the celebration surrounding the inauguration Jan. 21 will be much smaller in scope and cost than the parties in 2009, with an eye toward the still sluggish national economy.

But a person familiar with the committee’s work said the events will also have a focus on the military, and include a number of opportunities for servicemembers and their families to interact with political leaders.

The Commander in Chief’s ball will feature Pentagon officials, Medal of Honor recipients, wounded warriors and representatives from throughout the armed forces.

Tickets for the event will be distributed through the Department of Defense and the Joint Task Force for the National Capital Region, which is also assisting with security for all inaugural events.

Hosting just two official inaugural balls would be a dramatic change from recent history, when the first family has made frequent stops and wardrobe changes in an effort to thank thousands of celebrating supporters.
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