Despite the decision by some government organizations to have “holiday” trees, the National Christmas tree lit in the Nation’s capital each year remains precisely that — a Christmas tree.  This year the US Coast Guard Band was the primary musical backdrop for the event; as is often tradition, the band stood for the Christmas prayer offered by the Rev. Darrell D. Morton.  Some bowed their heads; some did not.

The President’s remarks included a call for prayer for the military: 

We pray for the men and women in uniform serving in Afghanistan and Iraq and in faraway places who can’t be home this holiday season.  And we thank their families, who will mark this Christmas with an empty seat at the dinner table.

The national display reportedly includes a Nativity scene.

The National Menorah was previously lit on the White House ellipse.

Also noted at the Religion Clause.