Obama plans an inaugural ball exclusively for the military

Washington, Jan 2 (ANI): President-elect Barack Obama is planning an inaugural ball exclusively for members of the military, and his Presidential Inauguration Committee is working with the Defence Department to have the bash broadcast around the world.

The worldwide broadcast would be a first. The new president and his wife, Michelle, are likely to drop by the event for a dance and brief remarks, Politico.com reported.

The Commander-in-Chief's Ball, to be held at the National Building Museum, will be one of 10 official inaugural balls. The military-only ball continues a tradition started in 2005 by President George W Bush.

Organizers said the ball will honor the country's active duty and reserve military, and invited guests will include Purple Heart recipients and other wounded warriors, families of fallen heroes, and spouses of deployed military. Tickets will be free to those invited, the website said.

Obama said: "It is a privilege to honor our men and women in uniform during our inaugural festivities by continuing the tradition of the Commander-in-Chief's Ball."

"Our troops represent the best America has to offer, and without their dedication and sacrifice we would not be able to enjoy the freedoms that we are coming together to celebrate on Jan. 20. They deserve our thanks and our gratitude. Michelle and I look forward to attending the Ball and sharing this special evening with representatives of our armed forces," he added.

The ball will be held the evening of January 20 at the National Building Museum, the website said. (ANI)