Obama lights the national Christmas Tree

YEREVAN, DECEMBER 5, ARMENPRESS: PresidentBarack Obamakicked off the holiday season in Washington on Thursday with the lighting of the national Christmas tree. Armenpress reports, citing the ABC News that Obama joined hundreds of people for the annual event held just steps from the White House. First ladyMichelle Obama, daughters Malia and Sasha, and Mrs. Obama's mother, Marian Robinson, also attended the event on a chilly night in the nation's capital.

Obama said the national tree is a "symbol of hope and holiday spirit." He urged Americans to remember members of the U.S. military serving overseas, as well as their families.

"As we hold our loved ones tight, let's remember the military families whose loved ones are far from home," Obama said. "They are our heroes."

This year's ceremony marks the 92nd annual lighting of the Christmas tree near the White House. The National Park Service says the tradition was started by PresidentCalvin Coolidgein 1923.