The U.S. Army started preparations on Wednesday for transporting M1 Abrams tanks in Fort Cavazos, Texas, to Washington, D.C., for the upcoming military parade on June 14 in honor of Flag Day and the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army.
According to ABC News, U.S. officials confirmed that 28 M1 Abrams tanks will be sent to Washington, D.C., for the military parade. U.S. officials also announced that the tanks would be transported on trains later this month.
In addition to the M1 Abrams tanks, ABC News reported that Stryker vehicles and Bradley Fighting Vehicles will also be featured in the military parade alongside World War II military vehicles, such as the Douglas C-47 transport aircraft, the M4 Sherman tank, and the P-51 Mustang fighter. The outlet noted that the military parade will also include Huey and Cobra helicopters, 34 horses, two mules, one dog, and one wagon.
According to ABC News, Army officials have indicated that the 250th anniversary celebration is expected to cost between $25 million and $45 million. ABC News reported that the final cost of the events could be significantly higher when other factors such as security are included, especially since the U.S. Secret Service has labeled the military parade a “national security special event.”
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In a Wednesday press release, America 250 announced that the “grand military parade” will take place in Washington, D.C., on June 14 to celebrate the Army’s 250th birthday.
“President Donald J. Trump will join veterans, active-duty troops, wounded warriors, Gold Star Families, and Patriotic Americans from across the country to celebrate our heroes who have protected our country through strength and selflessness,” America 250 said.
“The parade will trace the Army’s evolution from the Revolutionary War through to the U.S. Army of Tomorrow,” America 250 added. “Attendees will experience 250 years of Army heritage through historical U.S. Army personnel reenactors, period-accurate equipment, vehicles, impressive flyovers, and military bands participating in this landmark event.”
According to ABC News, U.S. officials told reporters that the heavy military equipment that will be featured in the upcoming military parade will be staged at West Potomac Park prior to the parade. The outlet noted that the parade itself will take place on Constitution Avenue and will conclude near the White House.
ABC News reported that the Army’s Golden Knights Parachute Team will be featured at the Ellipse and that one of the parachutists will present Trump with a folded American flag. Following the conclusion of the military parade, the president is expected to administer the oath of enlistment to roughly 250 Army recruits, according to ABC News.
