President Donald Trump commemorated the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army on Saturday in Washington, D.C., delivering remarks at the conclusion of an incredible parade celebrating the strength and history of the nation’s first fighting force.
“Every other country celebrates their victories – it’s about time America did too,” President Trump said in his opening remarks.
“Watching this magnificent display, our souls are filled with gratitude for every generation of warriors who have worn the uniform, all the way back to the very beginning,” he added.
The president expressed love and deep gratitude for those who made the ultimate sacrifice of giving their lives to defend American freedom, speaking directly to Gold Star families. “The courage of your heroes are the bedrock on which our entire nation stands. We thank you,” he said.
“Today we commemorate an event that did not just change American history but changed the history of the entire world,” the president continued. “With the creation of America’s Army on June 14, 1775, liberty got its shield and freedom got its sword.”
He spoke to the integrity of the early Revolutionary Warfighter, noting that they were “armed with a righteous cause” and “led by an indomitable commander, a truly great man, General George Washington.”
The president praised the veracity and lethality of the U.S. Army, highlighting their complete devotion to victory or death. “Time and again America’s enemies have learned that if you threaten the American people, our soldiers are coming for you; your defeat will be certain, your demise will be final, and your downfall will be total and complete,” he said.
Echoing a phrase from his 2024 campaign, Trump added, “Our soldiers never give up, never surrender, and never, ever, quit. They FIGHT, FIGHT, FIGHT, and they WIN, WIN, WIN!”
President Trump also received a special gift at the conclusion of his speech: an American flag that was flown over Washington, D.C., during the 250th Army celebration on Saturday night.
The president’s gracious recognition of the American soldiers’ “legacy of unmatched courage, untold sacrifice and unequaled and undying glory” was a moment for the history books.
Saturday also marked President Donald Trump’s 79th birthday, as well as Flag Day.
“Tonight we affirm with unwavering certainty that in the years before and in every generation hence, whenever duty calls and whenever danger comes, the American soldier will be there,” Trump said.
“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,” he finished.
The special event finished with a flourish as country music legend Lee Greenwood performed “God Bless the USA” for attendees and troops. Fireworks were the final touch to the patriotic celebration, drawing cheers and smiles from the large crowd.