An unexpected threat looms over President Donald Trump’s grand military parade celebrating America’s armed forces in Washington, D.C.: the weather.
Scheduled for June 14, the historic 250th U.S. Army anniversary event could be canceled due to forecasted thunderstorms that could endanger attendees.
Despite fierce criticism from the left about costs and “authoritarian displays,” many across the nation eagerly anticipate this celebration of American military might.
The $25-45 million parade has been long desired by President Trump since being inspired by France’s Bastille Day celebration in 2017.
It will showcase America’s military strength with 6,600 Army troops marching alongside 28 Abrams tanks, 28 Bradley fighting vehicles, and 28 Stryker vehicles transported from Texas.
The one-hour spectacle, scheduled from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., will feature both modern and vintage military equipment in a powerful display of American military heritage.
Army spokesman Steve Warren assured the public that rain alone would not derail the parade, but acknowledged the genuine safety concern of lightning.
“It’s June in Washington, DC. We get thunderstorms. You could delay it, you could look at it and say this is just passing through. Or say, hey, this is a storm which gets bigger for a while,” he said.
“Rain won’t stop us, the tanks don’t melt, but if there’s lightning then that puts the crowd at risk,” Warren added.
Weather-related disruptions have affected President Trump’s events before, including his inauguration day parade.
The president spoke about the parade during a recent speech at the U.S. Army Special Operations Command headquarters, Fort Bragg, in North Carolina.
He said that although many countries recently celebrated the end of World War I, “The only one that doesn’t celebrate is the USA and we’re the ones that won the war. Without us, you’d all be speaking German right now. Maybe a little Japanese thrown in.”
Opposition to the parade has been swift. Some lawmakers, including Republicans, have criticized the event as mirroring military displays in authoritarian regimes.
A recent survey claims that 60% of Americans believe the parade is not a good use of government funds.
Anti-American protesters are organizing “No Kings” demonstrations to coincide with the parade.
In response, President Trump has already warned that such protests will not be tolerated if they threaten the safety or dignity of this historic national celebration.
General Randy George, the Army’s Chief of Staff, will make the final decision about weather-related changes after consulting with the president.
Weather contingency plans include potential delays or date changes to ensure this monumental celebration of American military excellence proceeds safely.
Meanwhile, Americans nationwide are eagerly anticipating this rare opportunity to publicly honor the military’s 250-year legacy.
