Army Celebrates 250 Years with Massive Parade on Trump’s Birthday/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ The U.S. Army is staging a grand 250th anniversary parade featuring tanks, troops, flyovers, and fireworks in Washington, D.C., on President Trump’s 79th birthday. Critics question the $45 million cost, impact on city streets, and possible politicization of the military. Despite rain and planned protests, the spectacle will proceed with strong security measures and a festive agenda.
Army’s 250th Anniversary Parade: Quick Looks
- Multi-million-dollar parade debuts on Trump’s birthday to honor 250 years of Army service.
- Tanks, APCs, helicopters and 6,169 soldiers feature, with 128 armored vehicles on display.
- Flyovers and Golden Knights start in the evening, accompanied by patriotic music.
- $45 million price tag criticized as wasteful by 60% of Americans.
- Street protection plan includes metal plates to prevent damage from heavy tanks.
- Security alert raised; protests planned through “No Kings” rallies nationwide.
- Possible rain delay, but organizers vow to carry on rain or shine.
- Parade ends with oath‑swearing ceremony, concert, fireworks on the National Mall.
Army Celebrates 250 Years with Massive Parade on Trump’s Birthday
Deep Look
Historic Commemoration with Military Swagger
On Saturday evening, the Army’s extravagant 250th Anniversary Parade begins at the Lincoln Memorial on President Trump’s 79th birthday. The celebration, part of a day-long festival, blends past and present military might—from Revolutionary War reenactors to modern Abrams tanks and flyovers.
Spectacle Details
- Troops & Armor: 6,169 active-duty personnel, 128 combat vehicles (M1A1 Abrams, Strykers), and 62 military aircraft.
- Musical Tribute: Concert featuring Lee Greenwood’s “God Bless the U.S.A.” followed by a fireworks display finale.
- Celebrate & Honor: Festival opens at 9:30 a.m. EDT with equipment demos, fitness events, history displays, and a ceremonial cake-cutting.
Political Flashpoints & Protests
President Trump’s long-standing ambition for a military parade—sparked by Paris’s Bastille Day in 2017—is now under scrutiny. Critics decry politicization of the military and the $45 million expense. Polls show 60% of Americans deem the event a poor expenditure. “No Kings” rallies aim to challenge the pageantry, although none are scheduled in Washington.
Infrastructure Protection & Weather Threats
To preserve city streets from tank damage, officials installed metal plates and barriers. Despite a forecast calling for possible thunderstorms, organizers plan a rain-or-shine event. However, lightning could prompt evacuation from the National Mall’s open areas.
Militarization Debate
The parade raises concern over military political neutrality. Earlier this week, Fort Bragg soldiers watched supporters sell “Make America Great Again” items, and troops displayed partisan reactions during President Trump’s speech—prompting discussion over Defense Department rules prohibiting political messaging in uniform.
Security Posture
Authorities have hardened security: fencing lines Constitution Avenue, and law enforcement stands ready in case protests in other cities aim to challenge federal civil-military boundaries. President Trump signaled that any protesters in DC “will be met with very big force.”
What Happens During the Parade
- Pre-parade: Caissons and historical units cross from the Pentagon, joining modern armored vehicles.
- Main event: Tanks and troops march along Constitution Avenue, capped by Lee Greenwood performing live and the Golden Knights parachute team landing on the Mall.
- Finale: Fireworks and formal swearing-in of 250 new or reenlisting soldiers round out the celebration.
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