D.C. Transformed: Army Parade and Trump Birthday Bash Amid Nationwide ‘No Kings’ Protests

This report has been updated.

WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump marked his 79th birthday by reviewing a grand parade featuring tanks, artillery, and soldiers in the nation’s capital. The event celebrated the Army’s 250th anniversary, coinciding with heightened political tensions and protests under the banner “No Kings.”

The nearly 90-minute parade showcased the Army’s evolution, starting with Revolutionary War uniforms and culminating in futuristic elements like small robots bearing the U.S. Army flag and newly admitted West Point cadets. Mammoth tactical vehicles rolled down Constitution Avenue, showcasing historical Sherman tanks alongside advanced HIMARS (High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems), which can launch precision missiles up to 310 miles.

In his remarks, Trump asserted, “The Army keeps us free.” He criticized the lack of celebration of American military achievements compared to other nations. However, the ambiance was marred by recent violent events. Earlier that day, Minnesota officials reported the assassination of a Democratic lawmaker and her husband, marking a troubling escalation in political violence.

Protests erupted late Friday, as veterans breached barricades at the Capitol to voice their disapproval over the parade. Tensions remained high after a Democratic Senator was forcibly removed from a press conference with Homeland Security. Additionally, protests flared in Los Angeles following immigration raids targeting undocumented workers, reflecting ongoing civil unrest tied to Trump’s policies.

In a legal dispute, Trump ordered the deployment of over 4,000 National Guard troops to Los Angeles without seeking approval from California Governor Gavin Newsom, leading to a federal court standoff. Meanwhile, local protests included a curfew imposed by Mayor Karen Bass’s office.

As the parade began in Washington, many supporters lined the route. Scott Aiken from Georgia, who drove ten hours to attend, emphasized the importance of honoring military service in his family. Despite the date’s significance, he claimed the parade’s essence transcended Trump’s birthday celebration.

While many expressed good wishes to Trump, others voiced dissent. Protesters like Angelica Zetino and Shoshauna Brooks traveled to D.C. after holding protests against Trump’s administration, citing recent immigration raids as a focal concern. Tom Moore, a D.C. resident, criticized Trump’s rhetoric surrounding potential protest responses, asserting it was unacceptable to threaten force against demonstrators.

Nationwide, the “No Kings” theme found its way into numerous protests. Organizers reported that over 1,500 rallies took place, unified in their stance against Trump’s military display. Approximately 60 individuals were arrested near the Capitol during demonstrations, including an elderly Vietnam veteran.

The parade featured soldiers from all divisions along with an impressive array of military assets, including 150 vehicles and ceremonial flyovers from various aircraft. The event was financed with significant taxpayer dollars and faced scrutiny regarding its potential impact on the city’s infrastructure.

As Trump intertwines military displays with immigration enforcement, critics remain concerned about the implications of military involvement in domestic matters. Trump has signaled consideration of using military forces for immigration control, stirring debates about legality and ethics under existing laws.

Last updated 7:33 p.m., Jun. 14, 2025