US military parade highlights: Trump praises Army's 'legacy of unmatched courage'

The Army parade ended after a display of troop formations, heavy artillery, flyovers, musical performances, and a presidential address.

Officers fired tear gas near City Hall, affecting families and peaceful demonstrators. Children covered their faces as protesters choked. “We’re getting tear gassed for supporting our people,” said one attendee.

Highlighting the US military strength at the Army’s birthday parade, Trump said “If you threaten the American people, our soldiers are coming for you.” Praising the Army’s power, he said it has “driven bayonets into the hearts of evil empires” and declared that US troops “fight, fight, fight and they win, win, win.”

Speaking at the US Army’s 250th birthday celebration, which also marked his 79th, Donald Trump said, “We’re the hottest country in the world right now.” He mixed historical war anecdotes with signature Trump flair, highlighting the global attention the US continues to command.

The US military parade featured weapons and systems currently aiding Ukraine in its fight against Russia, highlighting real-time battlefield support through military equipment sent from American stockpiles.

The military parade’s end included future soldiers from West Point, Texas A&M, VMI, and The Citadel. Trump swore in 250 new and returning soldiers, who raised their right hands and repeated the oath after him.

Nine Apache helicopters are flying over the parade route. These attack helicopters are built for combat and ground support missions.

Light raindrops begin to fall as US President Donald Trump walks onto the stage while the National Anthem plays. Trump stands and broadly smiles, clapping as the United States Army Band is introduced. The Army birthday parade has now officially begun, marking the start of the celebration.

Protesters rallying under the banner “No Kings” took to the streets in cities across the country, from Los Angeles to Boston, voicing opposition to what they see as authoritarian displays of power. 

In addition to a flood watch in effect until 11 p.m., the National Weather Service is warning of potentially damaging wind gusts sweeping through the Washington area. While the White House insists the Trump military parade will go on rain or shine, forecasters note that lightning strikes could force sudden delays or even temporary suspension of the event.

All scheduled “No Kings” protests across Minnesota were abruptly cancelled Saturday after two Democratic lawmakers and their spouses were targeted in separate shootings, with officials describing the attacks as a ‘politically motivated assassination.

Hundreds gathered on the lawn of the Mississippi State Capitol to champion democracy and a range of causes. Protesters wore tinfoil crowns to satirize former President Trump, while others waved signs with slogans like “Honk if you never text war plans,” blending humor and activism in a spirited call for accountability and democratic principles.
 

During a US military parade, activists from the group Code Pink held a small but visible anti-war protest. Standing in front of military vehicles, they chanted “Peace not war!” and waved bright pink banners with slogans like “Defund War, Refund Communities” and “No Weapons to Israel.” 
 

Police in northern Atlanta fired tear gas Saturday to prevent a crowd of several hundred protesters from reaching Interstate 285. As demonstrators marched toward the highway, officers declared an “unlawful assembly” over megaphones and ordered them to disperse.

Anti-Trump demonstrators are organizing protests across the country in response to a military parade and celebration in Washington D.C., held to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army. The event also coincides with former President Donald Trump's 79th birthday.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu extended his birthday greetings to US President Donald Trump and called him Israel’s 'greatest friend'. 

Festivities are in full swing in Washington, D.C. today, June 14, 2025, as a grand military parade and public celebration mark the 250th birthday of the United States Army. The live event, unfolding on the National Mall, features large-scale military displays, marching bands, and patriotic performances.

Over 1,000 personnel, including active-duty soldiers, West Point cadets, and veterans, will take part, with military bands, ceremonial units, vintage uniforms, and combat vehicles featured prominently. The event will also include participation from high-profile civilian partners, including representatives from the NFL, NASCAR, and country music stars,

Thousands of protesters joined the 'No Kings' rally in the US ahead of the military parade. More than 6,000 troops are poised to march near the National Mall to honor the army’s 250th anniversary on Saturday, which happens to be President Donald Trump’s 79th birthday.

Daylong festivities celebrating the army are planned on the National Mall – featuring NFL players, fitness competitions and displays – culminating in the parade, which is estimated to cost $25m to $45m.