Overview

• The U.S. Army’s parade on Flag Day will deploy 6,700 troops, 28 M1 Abrams tanks and 50 helicopters along the National Mall to celebrate its 250th anniversary.
• Officials confirmed that attendees will break into “Happy Birthday” for President Trump, whose 79th birthday coincides with the June 14 event.
• Organizers have installed steel plates and rubber padding to protect roads, and the parade has been designated a National Special Security Event requiring multi-agency coordination.
• With estimates ranging up to $45 million, funding concerns have intensified alongside warnings about potential damage to Washington’s streets and parks.
• An online petition opposing the celebration has gathered over 23,000 signatures, accusing the administration of politicizing the military.