Washington, D.C. [US], June 15 (ANI): The United States Army commemorated its 250th birthday with a grand celebration on Saturday, culminating in a fireworks display over the National Mall. The event, which featured military pageantry, speeches, and live music, was attended by President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump, along with top officials and invited guests.
Due to an approaching thunderstorm, the fireworks show was moved up in the schedule and began while daylight still lingered, according to CNN.
In his address, President Trump praised the Army’s historic contributions and saluted the men and women who have served. “The Army keeps us free, you make us strong, and tonight, you have made all Americans very proud,” Trump told the assembled soldiers and guests.
The President, who has long called for a large-scale military parade since attending France’s Bastille Day celebration in 2017, used the occasion to showcase what he called a “magnificent display” of tanks, troops, and aerial flyovers. “Every other country celebrates their victories—it’s about time America did, too,” Trump said.
Trump’s remarks included a tribute to American veterans and fallen heroes. “We love you, we honor you, and we salute your noble service to our flag and to our country,” he said. Reflecting on the Army’s legacy, Trump stated, “The U.S. Army has driven bayonets into the heart of sinister empires, crushed the ambitions of evil tyrants beneath the treads of American tanks… and sent the devil himself flying into full retreat.”
At the conclusion of the ceremony, Trump and the First Lady were presented with a folded flag that had flown over the U.S. Capitol during the day’s events. The evening wrapped up with a live performance of Lee Greenwood’s patriotic anthem, “God Bless the USA.”
Simultaneous “No Kings” Demonstrations Across the Country
While the celebrations unfolded in Washington, tens of thousands of demonstrators participated in “No Kings” protests across the country, including a massive turnout in New York City. According to law enforcement officials, an estimated 50,000 people took part in the demonstrations in NYC alone. Eight arrests were made in lower Manhattan in connection with the protests, CNN reported.
The “No Kings” movement, which has gained momentum over recent weeks, saw coordinated demonstrations in multiple cities, including downtown Los Angeles. The protests coincided with ongoing immigration-related demonstrations and carried strong anti-authoritarian themes.
While the US Army’s 250th anniversary marked a patriotic milestone, the widespread protests highlighted deep political divisions and ongoing debates over governance, civil liberties, and democratic values in America.
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