The White House is organizing a significant military parade on June 14 to celebrate the U.S. Army’s 250th anniversary alongside President Donald Trump’s 79th birthday. A nearly mile-long train has transported a variety of military vehicles, including M1 Abrams tanks, M2 Bradley vehicles, M109 Paladins, and Strykers, over 1,300 miles from Texas to Washington, D.C. The event is projected to feature approximately 6,600 soldiers, 150 vehicles, and 50 aircraft, marking a grand display of military strength.
Preparations for the parade are underway, with a stage being constructed along Constitution Avenue, and protective measures taken to safeguard roads from the immense weight of the tanks. Colonel Kamil Sztalkoper from the III Armored Corps highlighted the significance of this milestone, noting it as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to showcase the U.S. military’s capabilities.
While the event is anticipated to be a grand affair with a day-long festival on the National Mall—including a parade and fireworks—concerns have arisen among Democratic lawmakers. Some critics argue that Trump is using the military for personal political purposes, with Sen. Jack Reed stating that it primarily serves to boost Trump’s ego.
The budget for the parade is estimated at $30 million but could potentially increase to $45 million, which Trump dismissed as trivial when compared to celebrating what he calls “the greatest military in the world.” As the tanks and soldiers arrive, they will be accommodated in facilities managed by the Department of Agriculture and General Service Administration, with meals provided in the form of MREs and a hot meal daily.
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