President Donald J. Trump, joined by First Lady Melania Trump, Vice President JD Vance, Second Lady Usha Vance, and Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, marked the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army’s founding with a grand military parade in Washington, D.C., on Saturday.
The event, officially named the 250th Birthday of the U.S. Army Grand Military Parade and Celebration, honored the Army’s legacy and America’s military achievements.
The parade along Constitution Avenue, parallel to the National Mall, featured thousands of soldiers, tanks, military vehicles, and dozens of aircraft. It began at 6 p.m. — 30 minutes early due to weather — starting at 23rd Street NW near the Lincoln Memorial and ending at 15th Street NW. Preparations included deploying military equipment and installing fencing around the White House and National Mall.
Trump and the First Lady took the stage to “Hail to the Chief” and a 21-gun salute. In his remarks, Trump praised the Army as “the greatest, fiercest and bravest fighting force ever to stride the face of this earth,” adding, “You make us strong, and tonight, you have made all Americans very proud.”
He noted the Second Continental Congress’ founding of the Army on June 14, 1775, as the Continental Army under George Washington and highlighted its historic missions.
“Every other country celebrates their victories,” Trump said, per CBS News. “It’s about time America did too.”
The event also celebrated America’s broader achievements, with Trump citing victories in World War I and World War II. Earlier, he remarked, “I think it’s time for us to celebrate a little bit, you know. We’ve had a lot of victories. We’ve won two world wars … I think it’s a time to celebrate our military.”
Trump emphasized the Army’s future, stating, “Tonight, we affirm with unwavering certainty that in the years ahead, and in every generation hence, whenever duty calls and whatever danger comes, the American Soldier will be there. No matter the risks, no matter the obstacles, our warriors will charge into battle, they will plunge into the crucible of fire, and they will seize the crown of victory because the United States of America will always have the grace of Almighty God and the iron will of the United States Army.”
Attended by veterans, active-duty troops, wounded warriors, Gold Star Families, and patriotic Americans, the celebration highlighted the Army’s 250 years of service and its ongoing commitment to the nation.