December 1: Marine One lifts off from the South Lawn of the White House on its way to Andrews Air Force Base, before heading to the U.S. Military Academy West Point in New York. Through the window, President Barack Obama is seen reviewing the speech he will give to West Point cadets on his new strategy for Afghanistan. More photos from our first slideshow on Obama’s speech can be found here.
Official White House Photo by Chuck Kennedy
Obama reviews his speech on board Marine One as NSC Adviser General Jim Jones, Admiral Mike Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Defense Secretary Robert Gates, and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton confer.
Official White House Photo by Pete Souza
Ben Rhodes, deputy national security adviser for strategic communications, and the president review the speech on board Air Force One.
Official White House Photo by Pete Souza
Obama contemplates a portrait in the superintendent’s quarters of West Point before delivering his speech.
Official White House Photo by Pete Souza
Press Secretary Robert Gibbs and senior adviser Valerie Jarrett keep the President company as he waits backstage before delivering his speech.
Official White House Photo by Pete Souza
Alone again, naturally: The president, moments before he heads on stage.
Official White House Photo by Pete Souza
West Point cadets listen as Obama outlines his plan to send 30,000 more troops to Afghanistan.
Official White House Photo by Pete Souza
The president also describes a planned troop withdrawal in 18 months.
Official White House Photo by Pete Souza
West Point cadets.
Official White House Photo by Pete Souza
From right, Secretary of State Clinton, Defense Secretary Gates, Veterans Affairs Secretary Eric K. Shinseki, Admiral Mullen, and more of the President’s top military advisers are present for the speech.
Official White House Photo by Pete Souza
After delivering his remarks, Obama greets cadets from the audience.
Official White House Photo by Pete Souza
Admiral Mullen shakes hands with the president on board Air Force One, en route to Washington, D.C.
Official White House Photo by Pete Souza
Obama disembarks from Air Force One upon his return to Andrews Air Force Base.
Official White House Photo by Pete Souza
