U.S. Army's 250th Anniversary Parade in D.C. Estimated to Cost Up to $45 Million

Washington, D.C. – A grand military parade to commemorate the U.S. Army's 250th anniversary, coinciding with President Donald Trump's 79th birthday, took place on June 14, 2025, in Washington, D.C. The event, which featured thousands of troops and military hardware, was estimated to cost taxpayers between $25 million and $45 million. President Trump defended the expenditure, stating it was "peanuts compared to the value of doing it."

The parade, organized by the U.S. Army and the America250 commission, included approximately 6,600 soldiers, 150 vehicles, and 50 aircraft. The procession began at the Pentagon's north parking lot, crossed the Arlington Memorial Bridge, and proceeded along Constitution Avenue NW. Highlights included M1A1 Abrams tanks, Bradley Fighting Vehicles, and various helicopters, with reenactors showcasing uniforms from different eras of Army history.

A significant portion of the estimated cost, up to $16 million, was allocated for potential road repairs due to the heavy military vehicles. Additional expenses covered soldier meals, accommodation, and overtime pay for D.C. police officers. The event also featured a parachute jump by the Army's Golden Knights, a concert, and fireworks.

The parade drew criticism from various quarters, with some lawmakers and the public questioning the substantial cost and its timing with President Trump's birthday. Critics argued that the event politicized the military and that the funds could be better utilized for other public services. Senator Richard Blumenthal, a Democrat, stated, "It is Donald Trump who is the focus of his own attention, and the Army birthday just happened to be a convenient excuse."

Despite the controversy, the administration maintained that the parade was a fitting tribute to the Army's long history and a demonstration of national strength. President Trump had previously expressed a desire for a large-scale military parade, with earlier attempts during his first term being canceled due to cost concerns. This 2025 event marked the realization of that ambition, drawing an estimated crowd of hundreds of thousands.