The U.S. Army held a grand parade in Washington, D.C., to mark its 250th anniversary, coinciding with President Trump's 79th birthday. Despite protests and criticisms regarding the politicization of the military, the event featured over 6,000 troops, armored vehicles, and historical displays of military might. Many veterans, like Mike Davis, expressed their support for the celebration, reflecting on the rarity of such parades since the Gulf War. The commemorative celebration faced scrutiny, with a significant cost estimated between $25 million and $45 million for the event, highlighting the juxtaposition of national pride and political division.
The parade stirred up controversy for what opponents view as a politicization of the nation's armed forces and a break from U.S. democratic norms.
Despite threats of lightning and storms rolling into D.C., the parade went ahead as advertised, featuring dozens of armored tanks and artillery vehicles.
Mike Davis, a 30-year Army serviceman, welcomed the flashy affair, noting the military had been overdue for such a big celebration.
The expected price tag for the weekend festivities is between $25 million and $45 million, according to Army spokesperson Heather J. Hagan.
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