The U.S. Army is preparing a grand celebration for its 250th anniversary, rolling out a full-scale Army birthday parade featuring 28 Abrams tanks, World War II-era vehicles, and military flyovers along Washington, D.C.’s iconic National Mall on June 14.
The tanks began shipping from Fort Cavazos, Texas, this week, loaded onto trains that will depart later in May. The celebration is expected to be one of the largest peacetime military displays in decades.
Modern and Vintage Military Might on Display
In addition to the Abrams tanks, the Army birthday parade will include Bradley Fighting Vehicles, Strykers, and historic machines such as the M4 Sherman tank, Douglas C-47 transport, and P-51 Mustang fighter aircraft.
Spectators can also expect to see Cobra and Huey helicopters, 50 military aircraft, and period-accurate reenactors, giving a visual timeline of Army history from the Revolutionary War to present day.
Adding to the spectacle will be 34 horses, two mules, one wagon, and a military working dog.
Trump to Participate in Key Ceremony
The parade falls on former President Donald Trump’s birthday, prompting speculation about political overtones. Trump, who previously pushed for a large military parade during his presidency, is expected to be present at the event.
After the procession, a folded American flag will be presented to Trump by an Army parachutist. Trump is then expected to administer the constitutional oath to 250 new and reenlisting Army members in a symbolic gesture.
Parade Route and Security Measures
The Army birthday parade will march along Constitution Avenue, ending near the White House. Equipment will be staged at West Potomac Park, with the Golden Knights parachute team landing on the Ellipse as a featured highlight.
The U.S. Secret Service has declared the parade a national security special event, similar to the Super Bowl or a presidential inauguration. Security plans are still under wraps, and the Department of Homeland Security has not disclosed a full cost estimate.
Cost and Logistics Behind the Scenes
The Army expects to spend between $25 million and $45 million, though costs may rise significantly with security and logistics. Officials confirmed the Army will be responsible for any infrastructure damage in Maryland and D.C., with mitigation efforts including rubber treads for tanks and metal road plates for sharper turns.
Troops to Live in Federal Offices
About 6,700 soldiers will begin arriving in Washington, D.C., on June 11 to prepare for the Army birthday parade. Troops will sleep in unused federal office buildings, including the Department of Agriculture, and use shower trailers set up in secure zones.
Each soldier will receive a $69 daily stipend, two ready-to-eat meals, and a hot dinner from military contractors.
Celebrating Army Heritage in Full Costume
Many soldiers will march in Revolutionary War costumes, designed to highlight the Army’s evolution over two and a half centuries. These uniforms were sourced from a professional production company and reflect the parade’s mission: telling the Army’s 250-year story through powerful imagery, motion, and tradition.
