President Obama celebrates his 50th birthday

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President Barack Obama salutes as he arrives from Chicago on Air Force One, early Thursday, Aug. 4, 2011 (his birthday), in Andrews Air Force Base, Md.

Obama waves from Air Force One upon arrival at Andrews Air Force Base. Obama's big birthday comes just days after he reached a deal with Republicans to raise the nation's debt ceiling and avert a calamitous government default.

Obama is greeted by musician Herbie Hancock at a fundraiser on the eve of Obama's 50th birthday, Wednesday, Aug. 3, 2011, in Chicago. The president used his re-election campaign as an opportunity to start his birthday celebrations early. He headlined birthday-themed fundraisers in Chicago Wednesday night and spoke via video conference to supporters holding their own presidential birthday events around the country.

Obama wipes the sweat from his face after speaks at the fundraiser. With the cloud of uncertainty that surrounded the debt debate now lifted, Obama had a wide smile on his face for much of the night.

Jennifer Hudson, right and Herbie Hancock stand on stage at the Aragon Ballroom. At a small dinner for high-dollar donors later in the night, Obama said there would be one very important present waiting for him in back in Washington on Thursday. His oldest daughter, Malia, was coming home from camp to celebrate her father's birthday.

Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel shows President Barack Obama how close the mayor has come to swearing since taking office.

Obama, right, is greeted by musician Jennifer Hudson, left, and Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel before speaking at the Aragon Ballroom. Obama is the third U.S. president who belongs to the baby boom generation, a population of more than 76 million. Bill Clinton was the first, followed by George W. Bush.

Obama shakes hands after his speech for the celebration of his 50th birthday at the Aragon Ballroom.

President Obama is greeted by Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel as he steps off of Air Force One as he arrive at O'Hare International Airport, Wednesday, Aug. 3, 2011, in Chicago.

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President Barack Obama salutes as he arrives from Chicago on Air Force One, early Thursday, Aug. 4, 2011 (his birthday), in Andrews Air Force Base, Md.

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