250th Army Anniversary Parade!
Washington, Jun 14 (EFE).-
United States President Donald Trump on Saturday defended a military parade commemorating the 250th anniversary of the country’s army in Washington, a type of military demonstration it rarely holds and which has been criticized by opponents.
“Every other country celebrates their victories; it’s about time America did too,” the president said at the close of more than two hours of a parade of regiments, Abrams tanks, paratroopers, planes, helicopters, and units that participated in historic battles since 1775.
Trump said the army is “the greatest, most fearsome, and courageous force that has ever walked the face of the Earth” and reviewed historic moments of this branch of the Armed Forces in key battles such as Sicily, the Philippines, and Iraq.
“The army has forged a legacy of unparalleled courage, unique sacrifice, and unparalleled immortal glory,” the president added in a brief address before closing the festivities with a fireworks display.
Thousands of people gathered along the National Mall to watch the parade under heavy security measures and the threat of rain, which ultimately did not occur.
Some 6,000 soldiers participated in the military parade, something unusual in the tradition of American democracy, but common in many countries.
Trump has been criticized by his opponents for giving free rein to “authoritarian” impulses with this event and spending more than $45 million on a celebration that coincides with his 79th birthday and Flag Day.
The parade took place against the backdrop of mass protests against the president’s immigration policy across the country and the ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel, which once again threatens to destabilize the Middle East and drag the US into conflict. Trump has said he would try to avoid this by all means. EFE jmr/lds
