Army military parade in DC cost $30 million 

The Army spent around $30 million on the military parade to mark the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army, which also fell on the day of President Trump’s 79th birthday. 

“I can confirm the total for the Army festival and parade cost approximately $30 million,” an Army spokesperson told The Hill on Wednesday. 

The initial cost of the parade was estimated to be between $25 million and $45 million, not including police, damage to the city streets and cleanup. 

Approximately 6,700 soldiers, dressed in historic and modern uniforms, marched in the parade. The military showcased a wide range of equipment, including rolling tanks, tactical vehicles, aircraft and artillery weapons. The parade drew thousands of spectators. 

Authorities placed miles of fencing and were screening all of the people who got close to the area, either to participate in the events leading up to the parade or just to watch the parade. 

Trump held a brief speech where he expressed gratitude to those who served in the armed forces. 

“Every other country celebrates their victories. It’s about time America did, too. That’s what we’re doing tonight,” Trump said. 

“Watching this magnificent display, our souls are filled with gratitude for every generation of warriors who have worn the uniform back to the very beginning,” the president later added. 

Due to concerns over lightning, the Army did cancel the planned flyover of F-22 fighter planes. But, other events took place, including U.S. Army Golden Knights parachuting in and helicopters, such as Apache and Black Hawk, flying near the National Mall. 

“To our soldiers, we’re so proud of you. And let me tell you, the way that we honor and respect you, number one, we never ask you to go to war unless you absolutely have to,” Vice President Vance said at the parade

“And number two, when we do ask you to go to war, we give you the weapons and the support needed to kick the hell out of the enemy and come back home safely,” the vice president added.