Speculations High As What Paratroopers Are Planning For Trump Is Revealed
A grand military celebration on June 14 to mark the U.S. Army’s 250th birthday is drawing controversy and attention, as it coincides with President Donald Trump’s 79th birthday and appears to be doubling as an unofficial tribute to him.
According to the Raw Story, the event, projected to cost more than $45 million, will be one of the largest military parades in recent memory.
According to The New York Times, the spectacle will feature 28 Abrams tanks, 6,700 soldiers, 50 helicopters, 34 horses, two mules, and one dog—a massive show of military strength and symbolism.
While officials insist there are “no plans at the moment” to sing Happy Birthday to either Trump or the Army during the event, one high-profile moment is raising eyebrows.
Paratroopers from the U.S. Army’s elite Golden Knights are expected to descend into the center of the festivities and present President Trump with an American flag, a gesture critics say crosses the line between honoring the military and politicizing it.
Supporters of Trump are hailing the parade as a fitting tribute to both the Army’s legacy and to Trump’s support for the military. “He’s the strongest commander-in-chief we’ve had in decades,” said one Republican strategist.
But Democrats and watchdog groups have criticized the timing and presentation. “This looks more like a birthday party for Donald Trump wrapped in camouflage,” said Rep. Adam Smith (D-WA), ranking member of the House Armed Services Committee.
The event is set to take place in Washington, D.C., and will be broadcast nationally. Whether intended or not, Trump’s presence—and the flag handoff—will likely overshadow the Army’s milestone, fueling further debate over the politicization of military ceremonies.
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