Army plans for a potential parade on Trump's birthday call for 6,600 soldiers, AP learns
The Army is preparing detailed plans for a potential military parade on President Trump's birthday, coinciding with the Army’s 250th anniversary festival on June 14, involving over 6,600 soldiers, 150 vehicles, and 50 helicopters. Despite the elaborate plans, which include marching bands and a parachute jump, final decisions and White House approval are pending, and costs are expected to run into tens of millions of dollars. Previous attempts at organizing such a parade were thwarted by high costs and concerns over infrastructure damage, particularly from heavy vehicles. The parade is intended to be a national special security event, potentially followed by a concert and fireworks, but significant logistical and security challenges remain unresolved. D.C. officials have expressed concerns about road damage and have requested financial coverage for any potential repairs if the parade includes heavy tanks.
The Army's plans for a grand military parade on President Trump's birthday involve a large-scale display with over 6,600 soldiers and significant military equipment, coinciding with the Army's 250th anniversary festival on the National Mall.
The parade, still awaiting final approval from the White House, is expected to be a costly affair, with estimates running into tens of millions of dollars, due to the logistics of transporting troops and equipment to Washington, D.C.
Past efforts to organize such a parade were abandoned due to financial constraints and infrastructure concerns, particularly the potential damage to roads from heavy military vehicles, which led to city officials' objections.
If approved, the parade would feature an array of military divisions, including infantry and tank battalions, and showcase historical military vehicles, potentially making it a national special security event that requires significant security arrangements.
D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser and local officials have expressed apprehension about the parade, especially the inclusion of tanks, citing potential road damage and the need for funds to cover repair costs.
Despite the elaborate plans, there are still many uncertainties, including which military units will participate, and how logistical challenges such as housing and feeding the troops will be managed.
The event is part of a larger effort to celebrate the Army's long history and engage the public, aiming to enhance national pride and awareness of the Army's contributions through a public display of military prowess and historical achievements.