A major military parade is scheduled to take place in Washington, D.C., on June 14, commemorating the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army. The event also happens to coincide with former President Donald Trump’s 79th birthday, leading to speculation that the celebration will serve a dual purpose.
According to reports from The New York Times, the Trump administration plans to merge the two occasions. While the parade is officially being held in honor of the Army’s founding, it is expected to also include elements recognizing Trump’s birthday. Rumors suggest the Golden Knights, the Army’s parachute team, may land during the event and present the former president with an American flag.
The parade is expected to be a large-scale spectacle. As reported by Express US, it will feature 28 M1A1 Abrams tanks, 28 Stryker combat vehicles, 50 helicopters, and nearly 6,700 military personnel. In addition to the military hardware, the lineup includes a dog, two mules, and 24 horses.
The Army estimates the event will cost between $25 million and $45 million, with the final total possibly exceeding that range. Officials have stated the Army will cover all expenses related to damage or cleanup.
Despite the overlap with Trump’s birthday, Army officials insist the event is primarily a celebration of the service’s milestone anniversary. “It is the Army’s birthday parade,” one official emphasized.
This is not the first time Trump has pushed for a military parade. During his presidency, he proposed a similar event, but the Pentagon ultimately canceled it, citing concerns over the politicization of the armed forces.
Critics have raised concerns about the optics of this year’s parade. Dr. Julia Azari, an associate professor of political science at Marquette University, questioned the message such an event sends.
“Seeing tanks roll through the streets of the capital raises the question: Is the U.S. military celebrating Donald Trump?” Azari said. “It doesn’t look like the tradition of a professional, outward-looking military. It seems more like a politicized institution focused on domestic symbolism.”
Despite the controversy, the White House is positioning the parade as a tribute to American service members. Deputy Press Secretary Anna Kelly stated, “There is no event grand enough to capture our gratitude for the millions of heroes who laid down their lives defending our freedom, but this parade will be a fitting tribute to the service, sacrifice, and selflessness of all who have worn the uniform.”
Kelly also confirmed that the U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission and the Department of the Army will jointly cover the cost of the event.
