Trump's Lavish Birthday Parade: A Celebration or a Controversial Display?

Washington D.C. hosted a large-scale military parade on June 15, 2025, celebrating the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army and President Donald Trump's 79th birthday. The event, which cost approximately $45 million, involved over 6,000 soldiers, numerous vehicles, and aircraft. The spectacle drew both praise and criticism. Some lauded the display of military might, while others criticized the expense and perceived autocratic symbolism, drawing comparisons to similar events in Russia, China, and North Korea. One commentator stated, "The sheer cost of this parade is astonishing, especially considering the current economic climate." The event also included a large public gathering, with estimates placing the number of attendees at over 200,000. Despite the controversy, the parade marked a significant milestone in U.S. military history.