'Fantastic machines': Tanks, heavy equipment set for DC military parade
WASHINGTON (DC News Now) — Dozens of tanks and heavy military vehicles have made their way into the District to stage ahead of Saturday's military parade, marking the United States Army's 250th birthday, also falling on Flag Day and President Donald Trump's 79th birthday.
What to know about Trump's military parade in DC
News cameras were allowed into the staging area at West Potomac Park late Wednesday morning.
'This is almost 80 tons of sheer power and lethality. It's crewed by four soldiers,' said Col. Kamil Sztalkoper of the III Armed Corps while pointing at one of the massive machines. 'We brought Abrams main battle tanks, rally vehicles, Paladins, self-propelled Howitzers, and Stryker infantry carriers.'
While the machines may be massive and weigh several dozen tons, he says not to worry too much about these tanks tearing up the asphalt.
'These [newly-added] track pads are about 2 inches thick; they keep the metal off the road. This is really going to help prevent [damage to D.C. streets].'
How to take Metro to get to the Army parade, festival
The parade goes beyond the armor, also celebrating the servicemen and women who make up our armed forces.
'They're fantastic machines, but what really makes them great is the soldiers inside them. Without the soldiers, these machines would be nothing,' said Sztalkoper.
Servicemen and women taking part in the parade said they are excited to share part of their story and give people a glimpse of their hard work.
'Everyone here is happy to be here. Happy to represent the Army, their units, and share in the celebration,' said one of the soldiers in town for the event.
'I never thought four and a half years ago, when I joined, that I was going to be here in D.C. for the 250th parade,' said another.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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