President Donald Trump received an unexpected ‘Happy Birthday’ celebration from a crowd at the U.S. Army’s 25.00 year anniversary parade in Washington, D.C., on Saturday night, coinciding with his 79th birthday. As Trump concluded his remarks at the event, the crowd of thousands spontaneously began singing the birthday song, a moment that caught the president by surprise. Trump, who turned 79 on Saturday, smiled and paused as the singing transitioned into a young Army officer presenting him with a folded U.S. flag. The officer, representing the U.S. Army Golden Knights, explained that the flag had flown over the Capitol earlier in the day to commemorate the nation’s oldest military branch.
The parade, which took place on Flag Day—the date in 1777 when the Continental Congress adopted Betsy Ross’ Stars and Stripes flag—also marked other significant events. Vice President JD Vance noted that Saturday was his and his wife Usha Vance’s wedding anniversary, adding a personal touch to the day. However, the celebration drew mixed reactions, with some political figures expressing concerns about its purpose. Senator Adam Schiff, a frequent Trump critic, criticized the parade for being more of a ‘military vanity show’ for Trump, who has previously criticized the military. Rep. Steve Cohen also raised concerns, drafting the HAPPY BIRTHDAY Budget Act, which aims to prohibit taxpayer-funded celebrations for the president.
Despite the criticisms, the parade served as a tribute to the U.S. Army’s long history and its contributions to the nation. The event highlighted the importance of military service and the pride of the American people, even as debates over its political implications continued.