On Tuesday, Trump cautioned against any protests related to the parade, stating to reporters, “they’ll face a very strong response.” Both the FBI and the Metropolitan Police Department have indicated that there are no serious threats to the gathering.
This week’s Army festivities reflect Trump’s love for patriotic displays and his image as a law-and-order leader. The celebrations on Saturday in Washington will showcase thousands of soldiers and multiple military aircraft, coinciding with Trump’s 79th birthday.
The Army was founded on June 14, 1775, more than a year prior to the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
Earlier this year, Trump’s administration reverted the name of Fort Bragg, a major military base, despite a federal law against honoring generals from the Confederacy during the Civil War. His administration contends that the name now recognizes a different Bragg – Private First Class Roland Bragg, who fought in World War Two. In 2023, the base was renamed Fort Liberty, a change prompted by racial justice movements.
