President Donald Trump celebrated his birthday on Saturday in a uniquely American way: by attending an incredible parade showcasing the U.S. Army’s military might and storied history, marking its 250th anniversary.
The epic U.S. Army parade in Washington, D.C., included roughly 6,600 soldiers, a cadre of M1 Abrams tanks and 50 helicopters, per the Associated Press. This stunning display of heritage and strength included Army uniforms dating back to the Revolutionary War, giving attendees and online viewers a glimpse into the long history of the Army’s operations at home and abroad.
Attendees were also treated to multiple flyovers, ranging from World War II-era aircraft like the P-51 Mustang to the CH-47 Chinooks.
The parade was carried out in historical order, from the Revolutionary War, the Civil War, the World Wars and beyond. The parade ultimately ended with the “Modern Army,” amid an endless line of tanks and at one point, a formation of futuristic drones.
President Trump was joined on Saturday by First Lady Melania Trump, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, Secretary of the Army Daniel Driscoll, and a slate of administration members. Vice President J.D. Vance and his wife, Usha Vance, were also in attendance, as were their three young children.
Many of the soldiers in the parade were all smiles, beaming with pride as they had the honor of waving to the President of the United States. It was a well-earned moment of celebration for the nation’s warriors.
The president capped off the parade by taking the podium and swearing in a large group of U.S. soldiers. They raised their right hands and swore to uphold the U.S. Constitution, protect their country from enemies foreign and domestic, and adhere to the orders of the commander-in-chief and their officers.
“Welcome to the United States Army,” the president said, after swearing in the fighters.
The newly sworn-in troops were also treated to a special performance by country music singer and songwriter Warren Zeiders, who wished the president a happy birthday, along with the U.S. Army.
