Despite looming thunderstorms and nationwide “No Kings” protests, President Trump’s long-anticipated military parade went forward in Washington, D.C., Saturday to mark the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army and his 79th birthday. The event featured approximately 6,000–7,000 troops, around 150 military vehicles—including tanks—and aerial flyovers. Cost estimates range from $25 million to $45 million.
Thousands of supporters, including veterans and military families, lined the route along Constitution Avenue, while Trump and First Lady Melania Trump watched from an elevated stand and saluted the passing troops. Despite rain forecasts, the parade began early and proceeded rain or shine.
Simultaneously, massive “No Kings” demonstrations unfolded in cities across America, with tens of thousands staging protests in places like New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, and Atlanta. While most remained peaceful, some clashes erupted with law enforcement. In L.A., police used tear gas and batons; meanwhile, heightened tensions followed a political shooting in Minnesota and escalating Middle East violence.
Trump had vowed that any disruptions would be met with force, and his comments underscored a deeply divided nation—half celebrating a patriotic spectacle, the other viewing it as a show of authoritarianism.