Bush Leads National Tree Lighting

WASHINGTON – President Bush (search) invoked the service of U.S. troops in dangerous lands Thursday as he heralded the "season of hope" with the lighting of the national Christmas tree (search).

Before thousands on the Ellipse, Bush and his wife, Laura, joined in turning on some 15,000 colored lights on the 42-foot Colorado blue spruce (search) that has served as the national Christmas tree for more than two decades.

"This Christmas, as loved ones come together, some in our military are separated from family by the call of duty, a long way from home," the president said. "American servicemen and women are bringing freedom to many and peace to future generations. Their sacrifices defend us all, and all Americans are grateful to them and to our military families."

Two girls from Brownie troop 5179 from Chantilly, Va., joined the Bushes in lighting the lights. The troop sent more than 200 pounds of candy, sunscreen, bug spray and other items for soldiers overseas.

"Across our country, citizens are supporting our people in uniform with their prayers and many acts of kindness," Bush said. "Often the effort is led by children."

Carols rang out on the mild evening, with songs from the West Tennessee Youth Chorus, country star Marty Stuart, tenor Carl Tanner and others.

Music also is the theme of the Christmas decorations as well.

"It's all those American Christmas songs that we grew up on and that our children are singing now," a red-suited Laura Bush said as she took reporters past vignettes of songs perched on mantels and tables throughout the State Floor.

Each year, the public areas of the White House are decorated for the holidays around a theme chosen by the first lady. This year's theme of "merriment and melody" — features 13 holiday tunes. It will be on view for the next few weeks for the lucky 44,000 tourists expected to wander through the White House during the holidays and the even luckier 6,500 guests invited to a reception.

In keeping with the musical theme, the traditional gingerbread White House replica in the State Dining Room features chocolate Marine Band members prowling the roof and First Pets Barney and Willie romping through miniature illustrations of songs such as "Frosty the Snowman," "We Wish You a Merry Christmas," "Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree" and "Toyland."

In the Blue Room, the official White House Christmas tree — an 181/2 foot Noble Fir from Washington state — is adorned with jewel-hued drums, violins, tambourines and even a tiny piano alongside red and gold balls.

Dozens of enormous trees covered with fake icicles and snow fill the Cross Hall and are tucked into nearly every corner. Garlands of gilded leaves, balls and instruments cover sconces and mantels. Embossed red velvet and taffeta tablecloths drape serving tables. Simple arrangements of white tulips and roses in vermeil pots compete for space with gilt candelabras.