President Donald Trump commemorated the United States Army’s 250th Anniversary with a grand military parade in Washington, D.C., coinciding with his own 79th birthday on June 14, 2025. The event showcased an impressive display of military might, featuring 84 vehicles, including 28 Abrams tanks, and 6,700 soldiers marching along the National Mall despite inclement weather, which prompted an early start to the festivities.
During the event, Trump addressed the crowd, lauding the “fighting spirit and unyielding force” of the American military. He emphasized the historical significance of the Army’s establishment and reassured that any threats to the nation would be met with decisive action. “It has done so much and set the devil himself flying into full retreat,” he stated, reflecting on the long legacy of the U.S. military.
Security was heightened for the parade in light of recent tensions, including protests over immigration policies and violent incidents affecting state legislators earlier in the day. While celebrations unfolded in Washington, protests labeled “No Kings Day” occurred in cities across the country, calling for policy changes and voicing opposition to the administration’s actions.
Attendees at the parade included high-ranking officials such as Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Vice President JD Vance, military veterans themselves. As the event progressed, soldiers dressed in historical uniforms represented multiple eras of military service, including the Revolutionary War through to modern conflicts.
In a symbolic act, Trump presided over the enlistment of 250 new soldiers, welcoming them to the United States Army. Following the parade, fireworks lit up the sky over the Tidal Basin, capping off a day dedicated to honoring military service.
Despite the festive atmosphere, a recent poll indicated that a significant portion of the American public viewed the parade as an inappropriate use of government funds, a sentiment reflected in critiques from some Democratic lawmakers, who suggested that resources should be diverted to more pressing needs, such as medical research.
This reflection on national pride and military strength was met with mixed reactions, yet it served as a reminder of the complex landscape surrounding public celebrations of military history and current events in the nation.
Overall, the parade offered a moment to celebrate the resilience of U.S. forces, while engaging with concurrent national issues, showcasing the power of both military and civic expression in America.