Army Parade Draws Protests, Marking 250th Anniversary

On June 14, 2025, the U.S. Army marked its 250th anniversary with its first major military parade in 34 years, held on Constitution Avenue in Washington, D.C., and featuring over 6,000 soldiers, 128 tanks, and a 21-gun salute. President Donald Trump presided over the event, which also coincided with his 79th birthday and included traditional ceremonies and a team 5K run in Carlisle, Pennsylvania. Despite heavy rain, the parade proceeded as planned, but public turnout in D.C. was lower than anticipated. The Army estimated the parade’s cost at $25–$45 million. Nationwide, thousands protested what they viewed as presidential overreach and domestic militarization, leading to large demonstrations across several cities. The event concluded with a fireworks display over the National Mall, highlighting both the Army’s legacy and the country’s political divisions.