A grand military parade rolled through Washington, DC, on Saturday, celebrating President Donald Trump’s 79th birthday and the 250th anniversary of the US Army. The event was a mix of celebration and controversy, coinciding with nationwide protests against Trump’s policies, known as the “No Kings” protests. While thousands gathered to witness the spectacle, many criticized the parade’s cost and political implications.
The parade kicked off at the Lincoln Memorial and stretched down Constitution Avenue. It featured nearly 6,200 soldiers, 128 military vehicles, including heavy M1 Abrams tanks, and 62 aircraft. The event also included a parachute jump, a concert with country singer Lee Greenwood, and a fireworks display planned for later in the evening.
Trump took to social media to assure supporters that the parade would go on “rain or shine,” despite warnings of thunderstorms. The National Weather Service cautioned about possible lightning, which could lead to delays or even evacuations of the National Mall if conditions worsened.
Critics have raised concerns about the parade’s projected $45 million cost and the potential militarization of domestic politics. A recent poll indicated that 60% of Americans viewed the parade as a poor use of public funds. Many are worried that the heavy vehicles could damage city infrastructure, prompting the Army to install protective steel plates along the parade route.
While the festivities were underway in the capital, protests erupted in other cities across the nation. Civil rights groups accused the Trump administration of using military force to suppress dissent. Protesters voiced their opposition to Trump’s policies, which they believe have harmed civil rights and social services.
Despite the absence of protests in Washington, the parade’s timing and nature have sparked debate. Organizers of the “No Kings” rallies argue that the event reflects Trump’s personal ambitions rather than a genuine homage to the military. They claim the administration has undermined the courts, deported individuals, and attacked civil rights.
The parade concluded with a ceremony where Trump swore in 250 new recruits and reenlisted troops, followed by a skydiving display from the Army’s Golden Knights. While officials insisted the event was about honoring military heritage, many attendees and critics felt it resembled more of a political rally, using troops as a backdrop for Trump’s birthday celebration.
As the parade unfolded, the atmosphere was festive, with food stalls and entertainment lining the streets. An estimated 200,000 people attended, creating a vibrant scene amid the backdrop of a divided nation.