Standing next to his wife and with his hand on the same Bible Abraham Lincoln used nearly 150 years ago, Barack Obama took the oath of office becoming the nation's first African American Commander In Chief. "I stand here today humbled by the task before us, grateful for the trust you have bestowed."
Acknowledging the bumpy road ahead, President Obama said he remains hopeful. "Today I say to you that the challenges we face are real. They are serious and they are many. They will not be met easily or in a short span of time. But know this, America, they will be met."
The unprecedented inauguration marks the end of the Bush administration. President and Mrs. Obama said farewell to the former first family.
Along the inaugural parade route, excitement, after those wishing to welcome the first family got a surprise glimpse of the president and first lady. Then a tribute to the Obama family, who looked on from a secured viewing station.
But in the midst of the celebration, concern over Massachusetts Senator Ted Kennedy, already suffering from brain cancer, he was rushed to a Washington hospital after collapsing at a lunch for President Obama. Doctors say he's doing fine.
The inaugural celebration will continue well after the parade ends. The new president and first lady will close the night by attending 10 official inaugural balls.
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