President Trump is planning a military parade in Washington D.C. on June 14th, coinciding with both his birthday and the 250th anniversary of the US Army. The parade, which would feature tanks, aircraft, and missiles, has been confirmed by Washington D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser after the White House contacted the city.
Trump previously attempted to organize a similar parade in 2017 after witnessing a Bastille Day parade in Paris. This earlier attempt was met with opposition from military leaders and Mayor Bowser due to logistical concerns and high estimated costs ($92 million). Concerns about the structural integrity of Arlington Memorial Bridge to support heavy military equipment were also raised.
With a new team of loyalists in top military posts, Trump may face less opposition this time. However, Arlington County Board chair Takis Karantonis expressed concern for military veterans who have recently lost jobs, and questioned the appropriateness of the celebration's cost, particularly given the Trump administration's cuts to government spending. The cost of the parade is estimated to be tens of millions of dollars, necessitating road closures, bridge closures, and airspace restrictions.
The article highlights the contrast between Trump's desire for a large military display and the Pentagon's general reluctance to stage such events, which are often associated with authoritarian regimes.