In Washington, eight years after former President Donald Trump was captivated by a grand military parade along the Champs-Élysées in Paris, he is on the verge of fulfilling his long-held ambition. This Saturday, Trump’s vision is expected to manifest through a grand display of American military might in the nation’s capital. Tanks and armored vehicles will traverse the streets, accompanied by thousands of soldiers marching in neatly organized formations, while military aircraft soar overhead. Adding to the spectacle, an elite parachute team is planned to descend near the White House, presenting Trump with an American flag.
Trump expressed enthusiasm for the event earlier this week, stating, “I think it’s going to be great. We’re going to celebrate our country for a change.” For Trump, who has a history as a real estate developer and reality TV personality, this is an opportunity to demonstrate his flair for showmanship. The parade also coincides with his increasing inclination to exercise the powers of his office, as evidenced by his recent deployment of National Guard troops to manage protests in Los Angeles.
During Trump’s first term, his interest in organizing a similar grand military event was curtailed due to concerns over the potential high cost. However, he is now advancing his plans despite objections, much like the tanks destined to roll down Constitution Avenue. Trump has dismissed worries over the financial implications, the political message such a demonstration sends, and the fact that it coincides with his 79th birthday.
One uncontrollable factor is the weather, which may bring thunderstorms that could disrupt the parade. The White House assured that the event would proceed regardless of rain, but cautioned there could be delays due to lightning. Trump, in response to this uncertainty, remarked, “Doesn’t matter. Doesn’t affect the tanks at all. Doesn’t affect the soldiers. They’re used to it.”
Originally envisioned for July 4, the parade was appended to another celebration marking the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army, coinciding with Flag Day and Trump’s birthday. According to White House spokesperson Anna Kelly, the parade is intended to honor military personnel and recognize their sacrifices. The administration has refrained from detailing the timeline of how this year’s parade plans were expedited, though Trump has been involved in its preparation.
The event’s costs are partially offset by private donations from companies such as Lockheed Martin, Amazon, and UFC, although government expenditure is expected to be between $25 million and $45 million. Some congressional members have questioned the hefty price tag amidst governmental fiscal prudence, yet the administration and Trump maintain that the costs are justified to honor military service and instill patriotism.
Military parades outside wartime are rare in the U.S., with critics drawing parallels to similar events in countries like North Korea. Trump drew inspiration from the 2017 Bastille Day parade in France, describing it as “magnificent.” As the parade approaches, Trump has acknowledged the overlap with his birthday, emphasizing that the day’s festivities are meant to celebrate the Army and Flag Day.
Trump’s influence over Saturday’s event is evident. He has requested specific military displays, including aircraft, tanks, historical reenactments, and formations of troops. Trump is expected to oversee the event from a viewing stand and will deliver a speech during a nationally broadcasted ceremony concluding the day’s program with fireworks. Lee Greenwood, known for the song “God Bless the USA,” is set to perform, having previously collaborated with Trump.
Despite proceeding past financial and operational hurdles, the parade is expected to face criticism. Preparations for a potential attendance of 200,000 include erecting anti-scale fencing and deploying drones to monitor the city. Protests, particularly concerning immigration, are anticipated, with some groups planning demonstrations, including a march towards the White House. Trump warned that protesters, should they appear, would be met with significant force, though the specifics were unspecified, raising concerns among critics who view this as another example of authoritarian tendencies.
“No Kings” protest organizers are planning nationwide demonstrations to counter what they describe as an event designed to amplify Trump’s ego. Their primary protest will occur in Philadelphia, aiming to divert attention from what they view as a personal glorification on Trump’s birthday. Trump dismissed the notion of king-like behavior, explaining his struggles to push initiatives through.