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Key Points

Trump commemorated the US Army's 250th anniversary with a grand military display and fireworks in Washington. Meanwhile, No Kings protests saw thousands rally in NYC and LA, leading to arrests. The president linked the event to national pride, calling it overdue for America. The celebration also marked Trump's 79th birthday, fulfilling his long-standing wish for a military parade.

Key Points: Trump Celebrates US Army 250th Birthday Amid No Kings Protests

  • Trump praised US Army's legacy at 250th birthday celebration
  • No Kings protests drew 50,000 in NYC with arrests made
  • Fireworks display moved early due to storm threats
  • Event coincided with Trump's 79th birthday
3 min read

US Army's 250th birthday celebration draws curtains amid No Kings demonstrations

Trump honors US Army's 250th anniversary with fireworks and military display as No Kings protests unfold in NYC and LA.

"The Army keeps us free, you make us strong, and tonight, you have made all Americans very proud. – Donald Trump"

Washington DC, June 15

The US Army's 250th birthday celebration concluded with a fireworks display over the National Mall. The fireworks show was moved ahead of schedule due to the threat of thunderstorms -- and it remained light outside as the pyrotechnics lit up, CNN reported.

US President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump watched the display from the viewing area, surrounded by officials and other guests.

Meanwhile, about 50,000 people are estimated to have taken part in "No Kings" demonstrations across New York City on Saturday, according to a law enforcement official.

So far, eight arrests, all in lower Manhattan, have been made in connection with the protests in the city, the official told CNN.

"No Kings" protests have been taking place across the country, including in downtown Los Angeles, which has been at the center of tense immigration protests this week.

https://x.com/WhiteHouse/status/1934009052872278049

https://x.com/WhiteHouse/status/1934059265867526486

https://x.com/WhiteHouse/status/1934049052879978947

Trump heralded the US Army on its 250th birthday, praising the military branch at the conclusion of a grand display of military might.

"The Army keeps us free, you make us strong, and tonight, you have made all Americans very proud," Trump told US Army soldiers in Washington, CNN reported.

Trump has long asked for a major military parade after enjoying a trip to Paris for the Bastille Day parade in 2017. Top officials during his first term punted on the matter amid concerns about the hefty costs and optics of such an event. But his second term presented an opportunity to celebrate the Army's 250th anniversary -- coinciding with Trump's 79th birthday, as per CNN.

"Every other country celebrates their victories -- it's about time America did, too," the president said, touting the "magnificent display" of tanks, troops and aerial flyovers.

Trump expressed his thanks to veterans and those killed in battle: "We love you, we honor you and we salute your noble service to our flag and to our country."

The US Army, he said, "has driven bayonets into the heart of sinister empires, crushed the ambitions of evil tyrants beneath the threads of American tanks. It's done so well, it's done so much, and sent the devil himself flying into full retreat."

Trump and the first lady were presented with a folded flag flown over the capital during the parade celebrations and later enjoyed a live performance of Lee Greenwood's "God Bless the USA."

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rahul K.
Interesting to see how America celebrates its military while we have our own proud traditions like Republic Day parade. But 250 years is a big milestone - our Indian Army will complete 250 years in 2047! 🇮🇳 The "No Kings" protests show democracy in action though.
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Priya M.
The fireworks look amazing but I can't help but think of the cost. In India, we would be criticized for spending so much on celebrations when there are so many poor people. Also, Trump celebrating his birthday with this event seems a bit self-serving no? 🤔
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Arjun S.
As an Indian, I respect the US Army's service but their history is very different from ours. Our military has always been about defense, not empire-building. The "No Kings" movement shows many Americans still remember their revolutionary roots against monarchy.
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Sunita R.
The contrast between the military parade and protests is fascinating! In India, we also see this during Republic Day when farmers protest. Democracy means different voices can be heard simultaneously. But I hope they resolve their issues peacefully - violence helps no one.
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Vikram J.
Trump's speech sounds very dramatic! "Sent the devil himself flying into full retreat" - our politicians could never get away with such language 😂 But seriously, while the celebration is grand, I hope they remember the soldiers' sacrifices beyond just fireworks and parades.
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Neha P.
The timing with Trump's birthday makes this seem like a personal celebration rather than honoring the Army. In India, we keep military and political events separate - and rightly so. Our armed forces deserve respect without political agendas. Just my thoughts!

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