Tanks roll through DC as US Army turns 250 — and Trump turns 79
Washington, DC — June 14, 2025
Rows of tanks and armoured vehicles thundered through the streets of Washington, DC, on Saturday evening as former President Donald Trump led a military parade marking the 250th anniversary of the US Army — and coincidentally, his 79th birthday.
The hour-long display, billed by Trump as an “unforgettable tribute,” drew applause from supporters and sharp criticism from detractors, some of whom viewed it as a troubling show of authoritarian pageantry.
“Every other country celebrates their victories. It’s about time America did, too,” Trump said from the National Mall, as light rain fell on a scattered crowd of attendees.
Vice President JD Vance acknowledged both the Army and Trump in his introduction:
“June 14th is, of course, the birthday of the army. It is, of course, the birthday of the president of the United States… Happy birthday, Mr President.”
Cheers and Criticism
While the parade featured salutes to American military history, critics questioned the timing and tone — especially the use of active-duty military hardware on civilian streets.
“This is dictator behaviour,” said Terry Mahoney, a 55-year-old Marine veteran and protester in Logan Circle. “If you take everything else he’s done — stomping on the Constitution — this parade may just be window dressing.”
Roughly 100 protesters gathered across the city, accusing Trump of politicizing the military and mimicking the spectacle of authoritarian regimes.
Trump, however, dismissed the concerns and insisted the celebration was overdue:
“We’re honouring the brave men and women who fought for this country. That’s what we’re doing tonight.”
Political Optics and 2024 Echoes
The event comes amid Trump’s ongoing campaign to return to the White House in 2028. Critics argue the blending of personal celebration and military might echoes similar controversial displays during his presidency, including the 2019 “Salute to America” parade.
Analysts say the display could deepen partisan divides over the military’s role in public life — and revive debate over democratic norms.
Whether viewed as patriotic pageantry or political theatre, Trump’s parade has once again put the spotlight squarely on how — and by whom — American power is displayed.
