President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama arrived in London today to kick off their official state visit. They were greeted in high style by Queen Elizabeth II and husband Prince Philip. The warm welcome included a private tour of the palace, a meeting with Prince William and Kate Middleton and a 41-gun salute. Such a visit is a rare honor for a U.S. president.
Historically, the Queen hosts one or two heads of state per year.
The Obamas will attend a state banquet held in their honor. On Wednesday, President Obama will give a rare address to both Houses of Parliament in Westminster Hall. This occasion is usually reserved for British monarchs. Normally, the heads of state are recieved in the Queen's Robing Room or the Royal Gallery.
Former U.S. presidents Ronald Reagan (1982) and Bill Clinton (1995) gave their speeches in the Royal Gallery. The last state visit by a U.S. president was George W. Bush in 2003.
(Photo: John Stillwell/The Associated Press)
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