In Washington, a large military parade was held on Saturday to mark the 250th anniversary of the founding of the US Army, coinciding with President Donald Trump’s 79th birthday.
Across the nation, hundreds of demonstrations against Trump and his policies took place. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) reported that over 5 million people gathered at more than 2,100 events across the US. Deirdre Schifeling from ACLU stated, “Today’s protests send a resounding message that people across the nation will not be intimidated by President Trump’s tactics. Americans are brave, democracy-loving individuals, and they will not stand by as the Trump administration shreds our Constitution—nor will the ACLU.”
Approximately 7,000 soldiers, dressed in modern and historical uniforms, participated in the Washington parade alongside more than a hundred vehicles and aircraft, including heavy armoured vehicles. The parade route extended several blocks towards the White House.
President Trump observed from a stand before addressing the crowd, stating, “America is proud, America is free. We are currently the hottest country in the world. And our nation will soon be greater and stronger than ever before. Every other country celebrates its victories. It’s time America does too.”
During his first term, Trump aspired to organise a military parade akin to those in France but later cancelled the plan due to high costs.
