Trump’s grand military parade rolls through Washington video

US President Donald Trump’s vision of a grand military parade became reality on June 14 as tanks, troops, and a 21-gun salute rolled down Constitution Avenue in a dramatic display of American military strength.

The event, coinciding with Trump’s 79th birthday, also drew widespread protests across the country, with critics accusing the Republican leader of displaying authoritarian tendencies, Caliber.Az reports via AP. 

Trump watched the procession from a specially constructed viewing stand just south of the White House. The event unfolded under overcast skies and light rain, with the Washington Monument looming in the background. Despite the weather, the parade moved briskly, featuring over 6,000 active-duty soldiers and 128 Army tanks.

The idea for the parade traces back to 2017, when Trump attended a Bastille Day celebration in Paris and expressed interest in bringing a similar show of national pride to the US. Although early efforts during his first term faltered, the concept was revived this year as part of the US Army’s 250th anniversary celebration. 

“Every other country celebrates their victories. It’s about time America did too,” Trump said in brief remarks as the parade concluded. The president used the moment to praise the armed forces, echoing a familiar line from his 2024 campaign rallies: US soldiers “fight, fight fight and they win, win win.” The phrase has taken on renewed significance since Trump survived an assassination attempt last year.

By Naila Huseynova