Watch: Fireworks in Washington DC to mark July Fourth

A massive fireworks display was held near Washington DC's Lincoln Memorial to mark July Fourth. Supporters welcomed Trump's tribute to the US military while protesters assailed him for putting himself centre stage on a holiday devoted to unity.

Washington DC: A massive fireworks display was held near Washington DC's Lincoln Memorial on Thursday, after US President Donald Trump celebrated the story of America as "the greatest political journey in human history" in a Fourth of July commemoration.

Supporters welcomed Trump's tribute to the US military while protesters assailed him for putting himself centre stage on a holiday devoted to unity.

President Donald Trump stuck with a patriotic message during his Fourth of July "Salute to America" speech.

Trump hailed an eclectic mix of history's heroes, from the armed forces, space, civil rights and other endeavors of American life.

He largely adhered to his script, avoiding the diversions into his agenda or re-election campaign many had expected.

"As long as we stay true to our cause, as long as we remember our great history. As long as we never, ever stop fighting for a better future, then there will be nothing that America cannot do," Trump told the crowds.

Attendees were treated to flyovers by Coast Guard helicopters, Air Force F-22 fighters, Marine V-22 Osprey helicopters and other military aircraft.

The event ended with a flyover by the Navy's Blue Angels aerobatics team.

Trump was the first president in nearly seven decades to address a crowd at the National Mall on Independence Day.