Trump’s Flag Day military parade faced heavy criticism over poor turnout, awkward marching, and high costs, with critics calling it “sloppy” and “humiliating.”
Donald Trump’s military parade to mark the US Army’s 250th anniversary and his 79th birthday has been met with ridicule, after soldiers were seen marching out of step before sparse crowds.
Held on Constitution Avenue in Washington, the $45 million pageant featured 6,600 soldiers, tanks, robot dogs, and military aircraft—but viewers criticised its execution and low attendance.
“This is easily the worst and sloppiest marching I’ve ever witnessed,” veteran Christopher David wrote on X, calling it “a big f*** you to Trump from the soldiers.”
Footage also showed Trump appearing downcast, as empty viewing areas dotted the route. Critics mocked it as a poor imitation of North Korean-style parades.
A poll showed 60% of Americans disapproved of the parade’s cost. Meanwhile, counter-protests dubbed “No Kings” drew larger crowds in cities like New York and Los Angeles.
Retiree Larry Stallard defended the event, saying critics “blow that [money] in 10 seconds on things we don’t even need.”