A large-scale military parade will proceed through Washington, DC, on Saturday as President Donald Trump celebrates his 79th birthday alongside the US Army’s 250th anniversary celebration. The event occurs while “No Kings” protests against Trump administration policies are planned in hundreds of cities nationwide.
The Washington parade, hastily integrated into the Army’s previously scheduled anniversary commemoration, has generated controversy regarding its cost, timing, and political implications. Organizers have decided against holding a “No Kings” protest in the capital to prevent potential confrontations.
The demonstration takes place amid heightened national tensions. Recently, Trump deployed US Marines to address protests in Los Angeles related to immigration enforcement operations. He also activated California’s National Guard without gubernatorial approval, leading to legal challenges and claims of federal overreach.
Beginning at 6:30pm local time, the parade will start at the Lincoln Memorial and proceed along Constitution Avenue, secured by fencing and armed personnel. Approximately 6,200 soldiers will participate alongside 128 military vehicles, including 60-tonne M1 Abrams tanks, and 62 aircraft. The program includes parachute demonstrations, a Lee Greenwood concert, and fireworks.
Trump announced via social media that the event would continue “rain or shine” despite weather forecasts predicting thunderstorms and ongoing nationwide protests. The National Weather Service has issued lightning warnings that could necessitate delays, with officials prepared to evacuate the National Mall if required.
The event has faced criticism over its estimated $45 million cost and concerns about domestic political militarization. Critics worry that heavy armored vehicles could damage infrastructure, prompting the Army to install protective steel plates along the parade route.
A recent Associated Press-NORC Centre poll found that 60 percent of Americans consider the parade an inappropriate use of public funds. Among respondents, 78 percent who remained neutral about the parade itself still opposed the expenditure.
Pennsylvania Avenue has been converted into a pedestrian area with food vendors and souvenir stands, blocked by positioned snowploughs. The festival atmosphere features fitness competitions, military equipment displays, and ceremonial activities.
Civil rights organizations accuse the administration of using military resources for intimidation and dissent suppression. Protesters opposing the demonstrations cite concerns about administration policies, with organizers’ websites stating the government has “defied our courts, deported Americans, disappeared people off the streets, attacked our civil rights, and slashed our services.”
Since Trump’s inauguration, the administration has implemented foreign detention for immigrants, established immigration arrest quotas, engaged in court conflicts, reduced government positions, and proposed social service cuts.
While no formal demonstrations are scheduled in Washington, “No Kings” rally organizers nationwide characterize the parade as reflecting Trump’s personal ambitions rather than genuine military tribute.
White House spokesperson Anna Kelly confirmed the event would proceed despite weather concerns or criticism, though lightning could cause sudden delays and evacuations.
The military display is organized chronologically, featuring troops and equipment representing various periods of US Army history. An estimated 200,000 attendees are expected. The parade will conclude with Trump administering oaths to 250 new or re-enlisting troops and a performance by the Army’s Golden Knights parachute team.
While Army officials maintain the event honors heritage and service, critics argue the spectacle resembles a political rally utilizing military personnel as promotional elements.
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