Trump Attends Grand Military Parade Marking US Army's 250th Anniversary

President Trump attended a grand military parade in Washington, D.C., celebrating the 250th anniversary of the US Army. The event, held on June 14, 2025, featured thousands of soldiers, tanks, military vehicles, and aircraft. The parade began at 6 p.m. ET, with President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump attending the ceremony. The event was part of a day-long celebration that included a wreath-laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery, a fitness competition, and an Army Birthday Festival on the National Mall. The parade route ran along Constitution Avenue, concluding with fireworks at 9:45 p.m. ET. The event was live-streamed on CBS News. Protests were held across the country, with critics accusing the president of authoritarian tactics and excessive spending on the parade, estimated to cost between $25 million and $45 million. Some lawmakers criticized the event as evoking authoritarian regimes, while others defended it as a celebration of American military achievements.