After being captivated by a grand military parade in Paris eight years ago, President Donald Trump is now set to create a spectacle of American military might in the nation’s capital.
His long-awaited dream is about to come true with a display featuring tanks, armored vehicles, marching soldiers, and military aircraft flying overhead.
The event will also include a performance by “God Bless the USA” singer Lee Greenwood.
Additionally, an elite parachute team is expected to jump from above the White House, deliver an American flag to Trump, and land nearby.
Trump expressed his excitement for the event, stating, “I think it’s going to be great. We’re going to celebrate our country for a change.”
This occasion allows Trump, known for his background in real estate and television, to showcase his skills as a showman.
However, the elaborate display of military power comes at a time when Trump is utilizing his presidential powers, including deploying National Guard troops to address protests in Los Angeles related to his immigration policies.
The president’s desire for a grand military parade was thwarted in his first term due to concerns about the high cost involved.
Despite objections, Trump is pushing forward with the event, much like the tanks that will roll down Constitution Avenue.
He has downplayed concerns about the cost, the message conveyed by the display of military might, and the fact that the parade coincides with his 79th birthday.
One factor beyond the president’s control is the weather, with the possibility of thunderstorms potentially disrupting the parade.
Trump, however, remains unfazed by the weather, stating, “Doesn’t matter. Doesn’t affect the tanks at all. Doesn’t affect the soldiers. They’re used to it.”
Parade plans unveiled after Army celebration, donors covering costs
Initially planned as a July 4th event, the parade has now been incorporated into a celebration marking the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army, coinciding with Flag Day and Trump’s birthday.
According to White House spokesperson Anna Kelly, the parade aims to honor all military personnel who have served the country bravely, including those who have made sacrifices to defend freedom.
While private donations from companies like Lockheed Martin, Amazon, and UFC are helping offset some costs, the government is still expected to spend between $25 million to $45 million.
Some members of Congress have raised concerns about the high cost, especially during a time when deep spending cuts are being advocated across the government.
However, defense officials and the White House justify the expense as a fitting tribute to service members and a way to inspire patriotism, with Trump calling it “a great expenditure.”
‘We’re going to have to try and top it’
Military parades are not a common occurrence in the U.S. outside of wartime, leading some critics to compare the planned event to displays seen in North Korea.
Trump drew inspiration from the Bastille Day parade he witnessed in France in 2017, which he described as “magnificent” and “one of the greatest parades I have ever seen.”
He stated at the time, “We’re going to have to try and top it.”
Although the parade falls on his 79th birthday, Trump clarified that the focus is on celebrating the Army and Flag Day, not his personal milestone.
The day’s events will highlight Trump’s preferences, with aircraft, military equipment, synchronized flyovers, tanks, historical reenactments, and marching soldiers all part of the spectacle.
He is expected to watch the proceedings from a special reviewing stand and deliver remarks during a nationally televised ceremony culminating in fireworks.
One of Trump’s favorite performers, “God Bless the USA” singer Lee Greenwood, is scheduled to perform as well.
Greenwood’s song is a favorite of the president, who has used it at various events. The singer has also collaborated with Trump on a business deal to sell “God Bless the USA” Bibles for $59.99.
Protests anticipated to counter the military display
While Trump has overcome logistical and financial hurdles that previously halted his parade plans, opposition to the event is expected.
With the anticipation of up to 200,000 attendees, the Secret Service is preparing for protests by setting up 18 miles of anti-scale fencing and employing drones for surveillance.
Several protests against the event are being organized, including a march to the White House. Immigration-related protests in Los Angeles have spread to other cities, raising concerns about potential tensions in Washington.
Trump warned that protesters at the parade would face significant resistance, although the nature of this response remains unclear.
Some critics argue that the policies of Trump’s administration and the extravagant display of militarism associated with the parade reflect authoritarian tendencies.
Organizers of “No Kings” protests are planning demonstrations across the country to counter what they view as an event designed to boost Trump’s ego.
“The flag doesn’t belong to President Trump. It belongs to us,” states the “No Kings” website.
However, they do not plan to hold an event in Washington, with their main demonstration taking place in Philadelphia to divert attention from what they perceive as a display reminiscent of a strongman celebration for Trump’s birthday.
Trump dismissed the notion of being seen as a king, stating, “I don’t feel like a king. I have to go through hell to get stuff approved.”
Associated Press writers Darlene Superville and Chris Megerian contributed to this report.
