WASHINGTON — On Saturday, Washington, D.C., will be a spectacle of military might as thousands of troops march alongside numerous tanks and helicopters to commemorate the Army’s 250th anniversary, an event orchestrated by President Donald Trump.
Trump, celebrating his 79th birthday on the same day, has been an advocate for a military display in the capitol, a notion dismissed during his previous term by Pentagon officials.
Now, with an administration filled with loyal supporters, Trump is set to realize the ambitious display he has long desired, despite some backlash.
This event exemplifies Trump’s assertion of his authority as commander-in-chief since he assumed office.
While the celebration proceeds in the capital, critics of Trump are planning their “No Kings Day” rallies in a nationwide demonstration against the administration’s policies.
Nearly 2,000 protests are slated to occur across the United States, as outlined on the event’s website.
This creates a stark visual contrast, especially in light of rising tensions in Los Angeles, where the National Guard has been deployed following demonstrations related to immigration enforcement.
In a pointed message, Trump warned earlier this week that any protesters in D.C. would face “very big force.”
Security officials stated that while they do not expect significant counterprotests in the district, they are keeping an eye on potential activities.
The parade also takes place amid rising hostilities in the Middle East, following Israel’s strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities and Iran’s subsequent responses.
Throughout the day, a variety of military demonstrations will occur, alongside a wreath-laying at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
The parade is set to feature thousands of soldiers, numerous tanks, and an evening fireworks display.
This parade could emerge as the largest military display in Washington since 1991, when President George H.W. Bush hosted a parade to mark the conclusion of the Gulf War.
“It’ll give downtown Moscow or downtown Beijing vibes; it’ll feel like a whole nother authoritarian, communist country,” remarked Arizona Republican strategist Barrett Marson, speaking to Finance Newso.
A specific concern for critics, including some within the Republican party, revolves around the event’s substantial cost.
Reports indicate the total expense could reach as high as $45 million, according to an Army spokesperson.
Senator John Kennedy of Louisiana expressed reluctance to “spend the money” on such an event, as reported by NBC News.
Polling data released Thursday from The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research indicated that 60% of American adults believe the military parade is not a prudent use of government funds.
Despite the concerns regarding expenditures, Trump has characterized the cost as “peanuts compared to the value of doing it,” as he stated in a recent interview with NBC’s “Meet the Press.”
“We have the greatest missiles in the world. We have the greatest submarines in the world. We have the greatest army tanks in the world. We have the greatest weapons in the world,” Trump told NBC News’ Kristen Welker.
“And we’re going to celebrate it.”
This story is ongoing and will be updated throughout the day.
