White House celebrates Independence Day

President Barack Obama marked July 4th by urging Americans to live and celebrate the principles that founded the US. On Sunday he paid tribute to the "immeasurable bravery" of US troops as he and the nation celebrated Independence Day.

With first lady Michelle Obama at his side, the President spoke from a White House balcony overlooking the South Lawn.

"As we celebrate the profound pride of being American, today is a time to honour the women and men in our armed forces, whose immeasurable bravery and sacrifice have made our country what it is today," Obama said in a statement.

The estimated 1,200 guests present at the occasion included active-duty members of the military and their families, wounded troops and families of troops who have died. Sections of the crowd screamed and cheered in turns as Obama individually thanked each service branch.

Singer Brandi Carlile, rock band The Killers, comedian Cedric the Entertainer and the US Marine Band performed for the gathering.