In Washington, the anticipation builds as the final touches for a massive military parade come together. Streets are lined with protective metal plating, and fencing is in place, while tanks stand poised, ready to commence their grand display.
More than 6,000 troops are gearing up to march near the National Mall in celebration of the Army’s 250th anniversary this Saturday, which also coincides with President Donald Trump’s 79th birthday. However, one uncertainty looms over the event: the weather forecast predicts rain, and potential thunderstorms could threaten to disrupt the proceedings.
Despite the weather concerns, White House spokeswoman Anna Kelly assured the public that the parade would proceed as planned, rain or shine, with exceptions only if lightning strikes. “Regardless of the weather, a historic celebration honoring our military service members will take place,” she emphasized in a statement.
The National Mall is set to host a daylong festivity in tribute to the Army, featuring NFL players, fitness contests, and various displays, culminating in the parade. The cost of the celebration is expected to be between $25 million and $45 million, drawing in crowds estimated to reach up to 200,000 attendees.
A special reviewing area is designated for President Trump, who will oversee the parade as formations march past the White House.
The parade promises a captivating narrative of Army history, with a total of 6,169 soldiers, supported by 128 tanks, armored personnel carriers, and artillery pieces. Aerial support will include 62 aircraft flying overhead. The historical journey begins with the Battle of Lexington, the inaugural conflict of the Revolutionary War, progressing through to current times.
Each historical conflict will be represented by 150 personnel adorned in period attire, succeeded by a formation of modern-dressed troops. Meticulously planned, each segment of the parade is designed to occupy no more than 90 minutes. Initial marching formations proved too lengthy, prompting adjustments so soldiers now march seven abreast instead of five, ensuring precise timing for each era’s representation.
Early in the parade, enthusiasts will witness a World War I Renault tank. Although smaller and less imposing than today’s modern tanks, these Renaults were pivotal in trench warfare at their time. The aerial display will commence with iconic aircraft like the B-25 Mitchell bombers, P-51 Mustang fighters, and the legendary C-47 Skytrain.
The narrative continues, capturing milestones from the Gulf War, the war on terror, and into contemporary military advancements. Audiences can expect to see M1A2 Abrams tanks and other key vehicles like the Joint Light Tactical Vehicle and Stryker combat vehicle. Notably, six HIMARS mobile rocket launchers, instrumental in Ukraine’s defense efforts, will also be on display.
As the parade progresses, the skies will fill with the Army’s airpower display, featuring UH-60 Black Hawk, AH-64 Apache, and CH-47 Chinook helicopters. This segment marks the Army’s forward-looking story, progressing toward future combat scenarios.
The parade concludes with representations of the Army’s future, spearheaded by the U.S. Military Academy at West Point’s band, leading hundreds of aspiring service members. This includes cadets from Texas A&M, Virginia Military Institute, The Citadel, and new enlistees.
In a poignant closing moment, 250 new recruits and re-enlisting soldiers will turn towards the president to take their oath of service, administered by Trump. The celebration wraps up with a jubilant jump by the Golden Knights parachute team, presenting an American flag to the president.
Following the parade, a 19-minute fireworks display and concert will conclude the day’s events. Organizers expect a substantial turnout in Washington, with alternative viewing options available through livestreams on the Army’s social media and coverage by several media outlets, ensuring the parade reaches audiences nationwide.
The event is scheduled to commence at 6:30 p.m., with a structured duration of 90 minutes.