USA: WASHINGTON: PRESIDENT CLINTON TAKES OATH OF OFFICE

(20 Jan 1997) English/Nat

For the 53rd time, the great ritual of the American presidential inauguration played itself out Monday.

President Clinton took the oath of office at five minutes past noon.

The presidential motorcade wound its way down Washington's main Pennsylvania Avenue as thousands gathered at the steps of the U-S Capitol to witness the great ritual of the presidential inauguration.

In keeping with tradition, the vice-president Al Gore was sworn in first, with his family at his side.

Then it was the president's turn.

Surrounded by his wife and daughter Chelsea, President Clinton took the oath of office at five minutes past noon (1705 GMT).

Hillary Rodham Clinton held the family Bible, and her husband placed his hand on it, as he repeated the oath given by Chief Justice William Rehnquist.

The crowd roared, and a 21-gun salute boomed out, as the Marine Band played.

In his inaugural address, Clinton pledged that his second term will begin an era of rededication to old values.

SOUNDBITE: (English)
"We must keep our old democracy forever young. Guided by the ancient vision of a promised land, let us set our sights upon a land of New Promise."
SUPER CAPTION: Bill Clinton, U-S President

Clinton wove the prospect of the new century throughout his speech.

SOUNDBITE: (English)
"At the dawn of the 21st century, a free people must choose to shape the forces of the information age and the global society, to unleash the limitless potential of all our people, and form a more perfect union."
SUPER CAPTION: Bill Clinton, U-S President

The president said that four years ago he had vowed to chart a clear course for America.

SOUNDBITE: (English)
"In these four years, we have been touched by tragedy, exhilarated by challenge, strengthened by achievement. America stands alone as the world's indispensable nation. Once again, our economy is the strongest on earth."
SUPER CAPTION: Bill Clinton, U-S President

President Clinton said the U-S economy is again the strongest on earth, and promised the nation will defend against the dark forces of terror and destruction.

In closing, he echoed his campaign theme of a bridge to the 21st century.

SOUNDBITE: (English)
"Let us shape the hope of this day into the noblest chapter in our history. Yes, let us build our bridge, a bridge wide enough and strong enough for every American to cross over to a blessed land of new promise."
SUPER CAPTION: Bill Clinton, U-S President

After a luncheon with congressional leaders, the Clintons will lead a parade to the White House.

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