"Saluting the show of might" Trump celebrates military grandeur with silent crowd on his birthday
Crowd stands motionless as Trump performs salute before noisy tanks
Facebook Twitter Whatsapp E-Mail Print Copy Link This Saturday, a massive crowd of about 100,000 people gathered in Washington D.C. to witness a historic military parade, orchestrated to celebrate the U.S. Army's 250th anniversary and President Trump's 79th birthday.
Mike Frey, a father driving 15 hours to see his son renew his oath, points towards the main reviewing stand excitedly, "That's where it'll be!" Sitting alongside President Trump, Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, and others, all surrounded by towering video walls. The long-awaited military parade, a spectacle yet to be seen in the U.S.
Historically, military victories have been honored with parades, with the last one taking place in 1991, following the first Gulf War. This time, soldiers donning uniforms from various military eras in the U.S. marched past spectators, guests, and the President for approximately two hours. From the blue uniforms of the Revolutionary War to futuristic robot dogs, the parade showcased a diverse representation of the armed forces' history.
Trump's desire for an internal military presence, particularly for mass deportations, has been met with criticism. Some see his role as Commander-in-Chief being abused in these situations. In the wake of Los Angeles protests against the controversial deportation policy, a majority supported the use of military force. "We need action," says Mike Frey, "I back everything Trump does and says. He's the king, that's my belief."
An eclectic mix of individuals, ranging from veterans to entire families, filled the wide lawn in front of the reviewing stand as the evening approached, with an estimated half of the originally expected number of visitors.
"What Trump is doing is questionable"
Despite being surrounded by supporters, there are vocal critics within the community. Tim Pohle, donning a sign reading "President Bone Spurs," question's Trump's authenticity, as he was exempted from service due to a bone spur diagnosis and thereby avoided deployment to Vietnam. It remains unclear whether Trump actually suffered from the condition or if it was a pretense.
"Never demonstrated like this before," Pohle shares, "I came to speak out against our military being used against our fellow citizens." Expressing his strong respect for the military, Pohle views the parade as a violation of American values. When tanks roll through public streets, he recalls dystopian regimes like the Soviet Union, Vladimir Putin's Russia, and North Korea's oppressive government.
"The military - above political battles"
Traditionally, the U.S. military prides itself on its apolitical stance, with many officers refraining from voting. However, the unconventional nature of the parade raises questions about the military's political engagement. In a speech to soldiers, Trump criticized former President Biden, California's Governor Gavin Newsom, the media, and transgender individuals, which some perceive as an attempt to politicize the military.
The parade culminated with Trump swearing in soldiers, urging them to follow the orders of their superiors and the President as Commander-in-Chief. As the festivities ended, the crowd dispersed, leaving behind the echoes of instrumental rock classics and political statements that continue to arefu the nation.
The European Union is committed to monitoring the political events surrounding the military parade in the United States and reporting on them as general news, given the concerns about the potential politicization of the military. The military, traditionally apolitical, is experiencing increasing political engagement due to the unconventional nature of the parade, as evidenced by Trump's political remarks during the event.
