Trump's Birthday Turns Into Military Show As US Army Marks 250 Years With Parade
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Greetings poured in from leaders across the world on the birthday of US President Donald Trump. Russian President and Israeli PM were among those who sent Trump birthday messages.
The United States is poised for a double celebration as President Donald Trump's birthday coincides with a large-scale military parade commemorating the US Army's 250th anniversary. Scheduled for Saturday evening at the Lincoln Memorial, the event will showcase tanks, military bands, and thousands of service members.
This event follows a tense week across the country, with military units deployed to cities like Los Angeles amid immigration crackdowns. With unsettled weather predicted in Washington and the possibility of demonstrations nationwide, the event will unfold under a charged political and social climate.
Trump has dismissed any concerns about disruptions. On Saturday morning, he posted on social media that the 'great military parade" would go ahead 'rain or shine." He had earlier warned that the protests 'will be met with very big force."
The parade, which was only added to the Army's birthday plans a few weeks ago, has drawn criticism over its high cost-up to USD 45 million-and worries that heavy tanks might damage city roads. To prevent this, the Army has taken measures like placing metal plates along the route to protect the streets.
A poll by The Associated Press found that around 6 in 10 Americans think the parade is 'not a good use" of public funds. That includes 78 per cent of people who say they don't feel strongly either way about the event.
What Will The Parade Look Like?
The parade will showcase 6,600 troops, 128 military vehicles including M1 Abrams tanks, and 62 aircraft flying overhead. Marching bands and soldiers in historical uniforms will highlight different eras of Army history.
The procession will move down Constitution Avenue, ending with a parachute jump by the Army's Golden Knights, a concert by Lee Greenwood, and a fireworks show. Ahead of the event, vendors will line Pennsylvania Avenue selling food, drinks, and memorabilia, while snowplows block off traffic for pedestrians.
Fitness contests, equipment displays, and a traditional cake-cutting ceremony are part of a daylong festival. Around 2,00,000 people are expected to attend, with security tightened across the National Mall. While no protests are confirmed in D.C., nationwide 'No Kings" rallies are planned in opposition to Trump's role in the event.
The parade begins at 6:30 p.m. EDT, with some units starting from the Pentagon. Weather may delay proceedings, but the White House says the event will proceed rain or shine. At the end, Trump will swear in 250 new or reenlisting soldiers.
(With inputs from agency)
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June 14, 2025, 23:34 IST
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