Join the Celebration: Trump’s Military Parade Commemorates the Army’s 250th Birthday in Washington, D.C. Today!

Washington — President Trump is in Washington for a big event: the 250th birthday of the U.S. Army, which coincides with his 79th birthday. The Army has lined up a grand military parade featuring thousands of soldiers, tanks, and aircraft. Huge crowds are expected for the celebrations.

The parade is set for 6:30 p.m. ET, but activities will kick off earlier in the day. Preparations around the White House and National Mall have been extensive, with tanks and fencing already in place.

The main aim of Saturday’s event is to celebrate the Army’s rich history. The U.S. Army was created on June 14, 1775, just over a year before the Declaration of Independence. Initially called the Continental Army, it was led by George Washington.

President Trump sees this as a time for national pride, highlighting America’s achievements in both World Wars. “It’s time for us to celebrate,” he remarked earlier this week.

In terms of military spectacle, attendees can look forward to:

• 6,600 soldiers
• Six M1A1 Abrams tanks
• Two WWII Sherman tanks
• Eight CH-47 helicopters
• 16 UH-60 Black Hawks
• Four WWII-era P-51 aircraft

However, not everyone is excited about the parade. Protests are planned in various cities against both the parade and Trump’s administration. Labor unions and activists are organizing “No Kings” rallies to oppose what they see as authoritarianism. Interestingly, the organizers have decided against holding events in Washington, D.C., stating they want to highlight local community actions instead.

The parade has also drawn criticism regarding its costs, estimated between $25 million and $45 million. Some, like Democratic Senator Tammy Duckworth, have voiced strong disapproval, calling it a lavish birthday celebration for the president. Meanwhile, Republican Senator Rand Paul expressed concerns, suggesting military parades evoke images of authoritarian regimes. “We’ve always been different from that,” he commented.

Reactions to Trump’s comments about potential protests have also stirred controversy. He warned that demonstrators would face a strong police presence, which Democratic Senator Chris Coons labeled an “authoritarian tactic.”

Despite the criticisms, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt insisted that the president supports peaceful protests. “He absolutely supports the First Amendment,” she stated.

As for the day’s schedule, here’s what attendees can expect:

• 8:15 a.m. – Wreath-laying at Arlington National Cemetery
• 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. – Fitness competition on the National Mall
• 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. – Army Birthday Festival
• 6:30 p.m. – 8 p.m. – U.S. Army 250th Birthday Parade
• 9:45 p.m. – Fireworks finale

The parade will run along Constitution Avenue, starting near the Lincoln Memorial and ending at 15th Street NW. Traffic around downtown Washington will be heavily restricted, so attendees are encouraged to use public transportation or walk.

The 250th Anniversary of the U.S. Army Grand Military Parade marks a significant moment in American history, reflecting both celebration and division within the country. As we commemorate our military’s legacy, it’s also crucial to acknowledge the differing opinions that such displays can evoke.

For those unable to attend in person, the event will be broadcast live on CBS News 24/7.

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United States Military, Washington, U.S. Army