2 days ago
Military parade set for Saturday
WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) – Washington, D.C. is gearing up for one of the largest military parades in recent history as the U.S. Army marks its 250th anniversary this Saturday. The celebration will feature thousands of troops, tanks rolling through the streets, and dramatic aircraft flyovers above the National Mall.
'Being part of the Army's 250th is an amazing opportunity especially to represent the First Infantry Division,' said Major Brandt Murphy, who will be among the soldiers marching down Constitution Avenue.
Lieutenant Colonel Patrick Husted added: 'You don't see tanks drive down the streets in D.C., so that in itself is going to be very, very cool.'
Preparations are underway not only for the parade, but also for a massive security operation. Fencing and security checkpoints now line the National Mall as the Secret Service and local authorities brace for large crowds and a potential visit from former President Donald Trump.
'I'm from Dallas, Texas,' said Jaslyn Jackson, one of many spectators arriving in D.C. ahead of the parade. 'I just want to see how it turns out — the crowds, the energy, and who shows up.'
Mary Walker, a Capitol Hill resident, says her family is especially excited, 'We've got a two-year-old boy who's very excited to see tanks and helicopters and celebrate the Army.'
Not everyone is thrilled with the military display. Critics have raised concerns about the optics of tanks in the capital, and the cost.
'I think that's pretty ominous, right?' said Rachael Harvender, visiting from Vermont. 'It's not something we're used to on American turf, so it puts a little bit of a spooky feel over it.'
Despite the criticism and a projected price tag in the tens of millions of dollars, organizers insist the celebration is a once-in-a-generation moment to honor the Army's legacy.
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