Trump defends his military parade: "It was time for America to celebrate its victories"

Washington.- US President Donald Trump defended on Saturday the celebration of his military parade in commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the United States Army in Washington, a type of military demonstration that the country does not usually carry out and that has been criticized by the Republican’s opponents.

“Other countries celebrate their victories; it was time the United States did too“, asserted the president at the close of more than two hours of parade of regiments, Abrams tanks, paratroopers, airplanes, helicopters and units that participated in historical battles since 1775.

Trump said the Army is “the greatest, most fearsome, and bravest force that has walked the face of the Earth” and reviewed historical moments of this branch of the Armed Forces in key battles such as in Sicily, the Philippines, or Iraq.

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“The Army has forged a legacy of unparalleled courage, unique sacrifice, and immortal glory without equal,” added the president in a brief speech before closing the celebrations with a fireworks display.

Thousands of people gathered along the National Mall to watch the parade under significant security measures and the threat of rain, something that ultimately did not happen.

About 6,000 soldiers participated in the military parade, something that is not customary in the tradition of American democracy, but which is common in many countries.

Trump has been criticized by his opponents for unleashing “authoritarian” impulses with this event and spending more than $45 million on a celebration, which coincides with his 79th birthday, but also with Flag Day.

The parade took place against the backdrop of massive protests against the president’s immigration policy across the country and the open conflict between Iran and Israel, which again threatens to destabilize the Middle East and drag the US into a conflict, something that Trump has said he will try to avoid by all means.