From PBS NewsHour.

The U.S. Army marked its 250th birthday on Saturday with a parade and celebration attended by President Donald Trump, who turned 79 the same day.

“Over the past two and a half centuries, our warriors have shown unrivaled valor on the fields of battle around the globe,” Trump said to the crowd during his speech after the parade that brought thousands of soldiers and dozens of massive military vehicles and aircraft to the National Mall.

“Time and again America’s enemies have learned that if you threaten the American people, our soldiers are coming for you and your defeat will be certain, your demise will be final and your downfall will be total and complete.”

Trump has heralded the celebration as a chance to celebrate the country and the "service and sacrifice" of soldiers. The president has also gotten political blowback over the parade, which will shut down roads and bridges around the city for days. Democrats have criticized the cost — up to $45 million — and accused Trump of making the day about himself.

Veterans are divided over the event and a majority of Americans don’t feel like it’s a good use of money, according to an AP-NORC poll.
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