I do solemnly swear that I will faithfully execute the Office of the President of the United States, and will to the best of my ability, preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States. So help me God.

Today at noon our nation pauses to reflect on its heritage as George W. Bush takes the oath of office, officially beginning his second term as the 43rd President of the United States.
Dating back to April 30, 1789, when George Washington first took the oath, today’s event marks the 55th inauguration in our country’s history.
Bush will be sworn in by U. S. Supreme Court Chief Justice William Rehnquist. The language of the presidential oath is specified by Article II of the Constitution of the United States.
Once the Presidential oath is taken, the military will render a 21-gun salute, and the United States Army Herald Trumpets will play “Four Ruffles and Flourishes.” The U. S Marine Band will then play “Hail to the Chief.”
President Bush will deliver his second inaugural address on the west front of the U.S. Capitol.
The Rev. Dr. Luis Leon has been picked to deliver the invocation for the ceremony and Pastor Kirbyjon Caldwell to deliver the benediction.
Following the swearing-in ceremony, the President will join invited quest in Statuary Hall for the Congressional luncheon. After lunch, President Bush will be escorted by United States Army General Galen Jackman to the east side of the U. S. Capitol for the pass in review, and then on to the presidential motorcade for the start of the inaugural parade.
The parade will begin about 2:30 p.m. at the intersection of Constitution and Pennsylvania Avenues, and continue down Pennsylvania Avenue to the White House. The parade will consist of some 11,000 people, floats, vehicles and bands, and is expected to be viewed by half-a-million spectators. Security for the event is expected to be extremely tight.
This evening’s events will consist of 10 inaugural galas, including the Commander-in-Chief Ball. Each event is scheduled to begin at 7 p.m. and continue until 1 a.m.
The 55th Presidential Inauguration concludes at 10 a.m. Friday with the National Prayer Service from the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C.

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