Donald Trump has made it pretty – he holds himself in high esteem, whether it is boasting about acing a cognitive test, lying about his health and height, claiming he graduated first in class, the Lafayette Square Incident when he reportedly ordered federal officers to violently clear peaceful protesters so he could walk to a nearby church for a photo op holding a Bible… or now, when his ego is about to get the ultimate boast with a big military parade, costing millions in tax dollars, for his birthday.
June 14, 2025, was set to be a significant day for America – it is going to be the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army. Though it is a milestone, the celebration would have been extended to some cake-cutting ceremonies, re-enlistments, commemorations honoring history and service, as well as some public outreach or community engagement. But the day is no longer a tribute to military service because it seems like Trump finally has what he wants – the day celebrating his existence instead.
Reportedly, the Army is planning a giant parade that includes over 6,600 soldiers, 150 military vehicles (including tanks), 50 helicopters, seven Army bands, and a parachute display by the Golden Knights and rolling it past Trump’s reviewing stand on Constitution Avenue near the White House. And that’s not all. Civilian reenactment groups and performers, plus a concert and fireworks, are also expected to be a part of the parade, thus spiking its cost to $100 million.
The news is attracting the expected reaction – outrage and disappointment from those who don’t hesitate to call Trump out and blind worship from his followers who refuse to see the drain this birthday bash will be on the taxpayers’ money.
Is it the norm? Nope, it is not a standard component of U.S. Army anniversary celebrations and is only happening because it is coinciding with the president’s birthday. After all, it isn’t the first time that Trump has demanded attention to turn on him on a day when the country should be focusing on honoring the brave soldiers.
Back 2018, during his first term, he relentlessly pushed for a large-scale military parade after witnessing France’s Bastille Day parade and wanted the same authoritarian-style parade one day before Veterans Day. But when the cost of the same ballooned to $92 million and the public backlash skyrocketed, the Pentagon promptly canceled the plan. Of course, Trump was mad and blamed D.C. officials for it all.
He accomplished his narcissistic dream in 2019, during the Fourth of July parade, where he redirected military assets, including tanks and flyovers, to stage a celebration around himself, thus turning the national celebration into a campaign rally.
Is it me, or is the country steadily becoming Trump’s America and people are just living in it?
Published: May 2, 2025 05:35 pm