A huge crowd turned out in Washington on July 4, 1970 for Honor America Day, which its organizers insisted was non-partisan. (AP)The plan was to celebrate the Fourth of July with a televised extravaganza on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial. Wealthy friends of the president began organizing an Honor America Day co-hosted by evangelist Billy Graham and comedian Bob Hope. Capping the day would be a star-studded, “Salute to America” show at the Lincoln Memorial. The hot, muggy July 4 began with a Billy Graham prayer service at the Lincoln Memorial.

Source: Washington Post July 02, 2019 11:00 UTC