President Donald Trump’s grand celebration marking the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army kicked off on Saturday morning, June 14, in Washington, D.C. The event, billed as a festival and parade, took place rain or shine, according to the White House, and featured a wide array of activities throughout the day. It aimed to honor the Army’s long history, from its origins on June 14, 1775, to its modern-day strength.
The day’s schedule included a wreath-laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery, a fitness competition, musical performances by the U.S. Army Band, and an NFL Skills and Drills event. The highlight was the parade itself, which started at 6:30 p.m. on Constitution Avenue NW, stretching from 23rd Street to 15th Street near the National Museum of African American History and Culture. The parade showcased soldiers from various eras, including those in Revolutionary War uniforms and modern combat gear.
In addition to personnel, around 150 vehicles and over 50 aircraft participated, including tanks, helicopters, and historic aircraft. Notable among the displays were 26 M1A1 Abrams tanks, WWII Sherman and Renault tanks, and modern helicopters like Black Hawks and Apache attack helicopters.
Preparations for the event included laying down steel plates on D.C. roads to prevent damage from heavy equipment, with the Army paying for any repairs needed. The event also drew attention to security measures, with road closures on key routes, and discussions about potential weather disruptions due to forecasted thunderstorms. Despite this, President Trump stated the parade would proceed rain or shine, emphasizing the resilience of the soldiers.
The last major military parade in Washington was in 1991, celebrating the Gulf War’s conclusion, which cost approximately $8 million. This current event, although estimated to cost between $25 million and $45 million, is viewed as an opportunity to promote American military strength and history.
Media coverage, both live and through streaming services, ensured that the parade was accessible to a broad audience. The event not only celebrated the Army’s 250th milestone but also served as a showcase of military capability and a patriotic tribute to the service members across generations.
