Trump Honors U.S. Army in Grand Military Parade

On June 14, 2025, President Donald Trump presided over a grand military parade in Washington, D.C., commemorating the U.S. Army's 250th anniversary.  The event, which coincided with Trump's 79th birthday, featured over 6,600 soldiers, more than 100 tanks, and various military vehicles and aircraft, including M1 Abrams tanks, B-25 bombers, and Apache helicopters.  Troops dressed in uniforms from key periods in Army history paraded through the capital, accompanied by elaborate displays such as parachute jumps and flyovers.  The event highlighted America’s military past, present, and future, with robot dogs and drones symbolizing technological advancements. President Trump delivered a heartfelt tribute to the U.S. Army at the conclusion of the parade, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and honoring the military.  He praised the Army for keeping the country free and strong, acknowledging the pride it instills in Americans.  Trump recounted the Army's proud history, referencing battles from Bunker Hill and Gettysburg to the mountains of Afghanistan, highlighting the legacy of courage, sacrifice, and glory.  He proudly declared the U.S. as the “hottest country in the world” and concluded his speech by affirming the nation's blessings from God and the enduring strength of the U.S. Army. Despite the grandeur of the parade, attendance was lower than anticipated, possibly due to rain and steamy weather.  The event occurred amidst widespread national protests organized by the "No Kings" movement, criticizing Trump for authoritarianism and extravagant spending—up to $45 million on the event.  In Los Angeles, tensions escalated when Marines and police clashed with protesters over immigration enforcement.  Demonstrators in D.C. carried anti-Trump signs, including caricatures and slogans against perceived fascism and militarization.  Though some veterans and Trump supporters lauded the show of strength, many Americans viewed the parade as an unnecessary use of government funds. The parade featured over 6,000 troops, 128 tanks, and a 21-gun salute.  Trump praised the nation's military might, echoing catchphrases from his 2024 campaign.  Despite elaborate displays—including parachute jumps, historical aircraft flyovers, and a swearing-in of 250 recruits—attendance was lower than anticipated, possibly due to rain and steamy weather.  The parade sparked significant opposition nationwide, with "No Kings" protests unfolding in hundreds of cities, criticizing Trump for authoritarianism and extravagant spending.  In Los Angeles, tensions escalated when Marines and police clashed with protesters over immigration enforcement.  Demonstrators in D.C. carried anti-Trump signs, including caricatures and slogans against perceived fascism and militarization.  Though some veterans and Trump supporters lauded the show of strength, many Americans viewed the parade as an unnecessary use of government funds. The parade concluded with patriotic music and a fireworks display, while plans for a fighter jet flyover were scrapped due to weather.  The event marked the first military parade in D.C. since the Gulf War, fulfilling Trump’s vision of a large-scale tribute to the armed forces.