Overview

• President Donald Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth attended the celebration on the National Mall on June 14
• Thousands of attendees waved U.S. flags, cheered troops, and posed for selfies in a festive atmosphere
• MSNBC hosts Ali Velshi and Chris Hayes expressed surprise at the absence of the tense, "dark, malevolent energy" seen at Trump rallies
• Some participants carried "Trump 2028" signs blending the anniversary celebration with campaign messaging
• The parade followed "No Kings" protests opposing the military demonstration and coincided with President Trump’s 79th birthday