At the 2025 Commander-in-Chief Ball, Melania Trump danced with U.S. Army Sergeant Henry Waller in a moment that quickly went viral. Later that evening, at the Liberty Ball, lip-readers claimed to have captured an intriguing exchange between the First Lady and President Trump during their dance.

The Commander-in-Chief Ball was one of three inaugural events celebrating Donald Trump’s second term as president. With a military theme honoring members of the U.S. Armed Forces, the ball featured performances, speeches, and moments of connection between national leaders and service members.

Melania Trump and President Donald Trump dance with service members at the Commander-in-Chief Ball on January 20, 2025 | Source: Getty Images

A standout moment of the evening was when First Lady Melania Trump danced with U.S. Army Sergeant Henry Waller. Their warm exchange and graceful waltz were captured on camera and quickly spread on social media.

First Lady Melania Trump dances with U.S. Army Sergeant Henry Waller at the Commander-in-Chief Ball on January 20, 2025 | Source: Getty Images

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The Commander-in-Chief Ball: Honoring the Military

Held at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, the Commander-in-Chief Ball was the first inaugural celebration for President Trump’s 2025 inauguration.

US President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump arrive at the Commander-In-Chief inaugural ball | Source: Getty Images

This event paid tribute to the men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces and included formal dances. However, it was as much a showcase of elegance as it was a celebration of military service.