A military parade was held in Washington, DC, on June 14, 2025, to mark the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army, which was established in 1775. The celebration featured an impressive display of tanks, troops, and a ceremonial 21-gun salute, generating a mix of enthusiasm and controversy among attendees and demonstrators alike.
The event took place on the Army’s official birthday and coincided with President Donald Trump’s 79th birthday. Sitting on a special viewing stand south of the White House, Trump made brief remarks at the conclusion of the parade. He expressed pride in the military’s capabilities and stated, “Every other country celebrates their victories. It’s about time America did too.”
The parade showcased over 6,000 soldiers and 128 Army tanks, a vision Trump had sought to realize during his first term after witnessing a similar event in Paris in 2017. He reiterated his campaign slogan, asserting that U.S. soldiers “fight, fight, fight and they win, win, win,” a phrase he frequently used during his rallies leading up to the 2024 election, especially following an assassination attempt.
Early in the festivities, the Army’s Golden Knights parachute team made an unexpected jump from overcast skies above the National Mall, arriving before their scheduled performance. Throughout the parade, President Trump stood at times to salute as military personnel marched past the reviewing stand. However, attendance at the event appeared to be much lower than expected, with estimates suggesting only a fraction of the anticipated 200,000 spectators. Large gaps in crowd attendance were notable at various points near the Washington Monument, attributed in part to steamy weather and looming thunderstorms.
Protests against President Trump’s use of the military for deportation efforts took place across the nation, with demonstrators voicing their discontent in streets and parks. Critics argued that the display of military might in the capital was inappropriate, garnering a mixed response. Meanwhile, on the National Mall, a variety of armored vehicles, helicopters, and military equipment were showcased in honor of the Army’s anniversary, complemented by vendors selling merchandise commemorating the occasion and Trump-themed items.
Larry Stallard, a retired pilot who traveled from Kansas City to attend, expressed disbelief over the complaints regarding the cost of the event, highlighting that government spending is often allocated to frivolous projects.
Doug Haynes, a Navy veteran also in attendance, acknowledged the event’s significance but remarked that the display was “a little over the top.” Pointing to a tank, he noted that its presence on the street sent a powerful message to the world.
The parade was incorporated into the broader celebration just two months prior, facing criticism for its estimated $45 million cost and concerns that the heavy tanks could damage city streets. To mitigate this, the Army had laid down metal plates along the parade route to protect the infrastructure.
Attendee Kathy Straus traveled from Richmond, Virginia, with a sign protesting the event’s expenses, suggesting that the funds could have been better spent to support veterans in need. She commented that participating in the parade was a more effective means of expressing her views compared to joining a traditional protest.
The parade procession wound its way down Constitution Avenue, lined with security fencing and barriers. A military flyover included WWII-era planes such as a B-25 Mitchell bomber and Army helicopters, which flew low over the crowd, staying below the Washington Monument’s height. The event also featured mounted soldiers from the 1st Cavalry Division, a nod to historical military tradition, even as horses are primarily now used for ceremonial functions.
During the proceedings, Trump administered an oath to 250 new recruits and returning soldiers, wishing them well in their service by saying, “Welcome to the United States Army! And have a great life.”
Entertainment included performances by country music singer Warren Zeiders and “God Bless the U.S.A.” singer Lee Greenwood, concluding the day with a fireworks show. However, plans for a U.S. Air Force fighter jet flyover were ultimately canceled due to inclement weather conditions.
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