Preparation for the Military Parade in Washington, D.C. (Washington EPA=Yonhap News) — Construction workers are setting up a stage near the White House in Washington, D.C., where President Donald Trump will watch the military parade on the 8th (local time). 2025.6.8. photo@yna.co.kr [No resale or database storage]
The Washington Post reported that the U.S. Army plans to hold a military parade in Washington, D.C., this weekend to celebrate President Donald Trump’s birthday and the 250th anniversary of the Army’s founding, potentially causing road damage.
The parade, scheduled for the 14th local time, will feature 28 Abrams tanks, the mainstay of the U.S. military. Each tank weighs about 70 tons, nearly twice the maximum load of approximately 36 tons that Washington, D.C. roads can bear.
Additionally, 28 Stryker armored vehicles, over 100 other vehicles, a B-25 bomber from World War II, 6,600 soldiers, and 50 helicopters will participate in the parade.
Local station NBC Washington estimates road damage could amount to $16 million, approximately 21.7 billion won. The Army stated that this is the worst-case scenario if no mitigation efforts are made.
The Army plans to attach rubber pads to the metal tank tracks to cushion the impact on the road surface, and they intend to place steel plates in potentially weak spots on the road for protection.
Muriel Bowser, the mayor of Washington, D.C., expressed concerns over road damage, stating that if damage occurs, the city might repair it with its own budget before billing the federal government.
The Washington Post also reported that costs such as garbage collection, road closures, and police overtime are expected, but the Army has not commented on compensation for these expenses.
The military estimates the parade will cost up to $45 million, approximately 61 billion won, with uncertain costs for the federal and city governments.
The parade on the 14th marks both President Trump’s 79th birthday and the Army’s 250th anniversary.
The Army had applied during the previous Biden administration in June last year to hold a 250th-anniversary event in Washington, D.C. The initial plan was a small-scale event with up to 300 soldiers and civilian workers, an Army band, and four cannons firing salutes.
However, after President Trump was elected, the plan completely changed.
Report by Washington correspondent Jeong Ho-yoon
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