On June 14, 2025, Washington, D.C. was filled with excitement as the U.S. Army celebrated its 250th anniversary. The event featured a grand military parade, which coincidentally marked President Donald Trump’s 79th birthday. This parade was a significant display of military might, bringing together thousands of service members and a variety of military equipment.
The parade started in the morning and showcased an impressive lineup. Attendees could see armored tanks, artillery vehicles, and military aircraft, including Black Hawk helicopters. Over 6,000 troops marched in formation, many wearing historical uniforms that represented different eras of American military history. The event also included a unique touch with 34 horses, two mules, and a Blue Heeler dog named Doc Holliday joining the procession.
As the parade kicked off, President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump took their places in the viewing stands. A group of attendees began singing “Happy Birthday” to the president, while others cheered with chants of "USA." Trump later praised the Army, calling it the "greatest, fiercest and bravest fighting force" in the world.
However, the parade was not without controversy. Critics argued that such a display during peacetime was excessive and politicized the military. Many saw it as a demonstration typical of authoritarian regimes. Protests were organized across the country, with the group No Kings leading the charge against what they termed a "costly and un-American" event. Demonstrators voiced their concerns about the military being used for personal celebrations.
The parade’s cost was estimated to be between $25 million and $45 million, which included expenses for road repairs due to the heavy military vehicles. This expenditure raised eyebrows, especially as Trump faced backlash for cuts to veterans’ benefits.
While some welcomed the parade as a fitting tribute to the Army’s long history, others felt it was a display of vanity. The last major military parade in the U.S. took place in 1991, celebrating the end of the Gulf War. Since then, such grand displays have been rare, especially during peacetime.
As the day unfolded, Trump delivered closing remarks, emphasizing the importance of celebrating the military. He said, "Every other country celebrates their victories. It’s about time America did too." After his speech, he received a folded American flag, a gesture usually reserved for the families of fallen soldiers.
The event was a mix of celebration and protest, reflecting the divided opinions on military displays in the United States. While many enjoyed the spectacle, others saw it as a troubling sign of the times.