Thousands of troops, along with tanks and aircraft, are set to participate in a military parade through the National Mall in Washington DC to commemorate the US army’s 250th birthday, coinciding with Donald Trump’s 79th birthday. This event fulfills the president’s longstanding desire for a military parade, occurring after his second term in the White House and amidst recent deployments of troops to Los Angeles in response to protests against deportations.
The day will kick off with a fitness competition and official ceremony honoring the army’s birthday, followed by a march of 6,700 soldiers and armored vehicles down Constitution Avenue Northwest. Helicopters like Black Hawk, Chinook, and Apache will soar above as Trump oversees an enlistment ceremony and accepts a flag from the Golden Knights Parachute Team, culminating in a fireworks display.
Despite the celebratory tone, the parade has sparked controversy and logistical challenges in Washington DC. The estimated cost of $25-45 million has led to road closures and flight disruptions, with concerns raised about potential damage to city roads by the heavy military equipment. City leaders, including Democratic delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton, have criticized the parade as a wasteful display that serves Trump’s ego without serving a meaningful purpose.
The event, while significant for the US military and Trump supporters, has drawn criticism for its extravagance and disruption to the daily life of Washington DC residents.
