The inauguration of the 46th President of the United States of America
On Wednesday, January 20, 2021 former Vice President Joseph R. Biden Jr. will be sworn in as the 46th President of the United States as the oldest man to take the oath of office. His running mate, Kamala Harris will become the first female Vice President of the United States, as well as the first female of color to assume the role. The 2021 inauguration will be different than those of the past as a little over two weeks ago, a group of people breached the capitol building and heightened security across the country.
“I've always watched every single inauguration whether I voted for that candidate or not. To me, it's a beautiful ceremony and time for whoever is given the honor to hold such a position,” said LaPorscha Gardner, a 35-year-old mother of two raised in Lenoir County.
The theme for the inaugural ceremony is America United and will kick off at 10:00 am with ‘Our White House: An Inaugural Celebration for young Americans. Due to security reasons, the Washington Monument will be closed. On the West front of the U.S. Capitol Building, Biden and Harris will be sworn in and deliver their inaugural address.
“History such as the swearing-in of a new president is always worth watching,” said Barbara Elden, co-owner of The Market in downtown Kinston.
After the ceremony, Biden and Harris will partake in the Pass in Review on the East Front. This long-standing military tradition reflects the peaceful transfer of power to a new commander-in-chief. Then they will visit Arlington National Cemetery to lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
“I am excited to watch! This will be the first time I watch,” said 16-year-old Pink Hill resident Turner White.
Following the visit to Arlington National Cemetery, Biden will be escorted from 15th Street to the White house with every branch of the military present including The U.S. Army Band, a Joint Service Honor Guard, and the Commander-in-Chief’s Guard and Fife and Drum Corps from the 3rd U.S. Infantry “The Old Guard.”
