The remarkable musician of the US Army performed songs dedicated to Washington, D.C., celebrating a united nation during Saturday’s event for the Army’s 250th anniversary. The festivities, featuring parades, fireworks, and musical performances, created a moment of solidarity for both those in attendance and the viewers watching from home.
Meanwhile, thousands of protesters, calling themselves “king” protesters, turned their focus from the Army, resisting the planned anti-orders popping up across the nation. They criticized the Army parade as an extravagant birthday celebration for President Donald Trump, whose birthday coincides with that of the Army on June 14th. They labeled it a multi-million dollar extravaganza for Trump’s personal celebration.
Had they watched the parade, they would have appreciated the significance of the event, which was wholly focused on honoring the military. Here are five reasons why the parade was a worthwhile expenditure.
1. The parade served as a living history lesson. The Army came into existence prior to the formation of the United States, making it impossible to narrate our nation’s history without acknowledging the Army’s role.
Experiencing the movement and sounds of the old guard fifes and drum corps teaches us more than textbooks ever could.
2. The military deserves reconciliation and healing following the Biden administration’s COVID vaccine mandates, which compelled service members to receive untested shots. The focus on equality, diversity, and inclusion (DEI) has overshadowed military readiness.
The mandate caused a rift, leading many skilled individuals to leave the military and negatively impacting recruitment. The parade provided a renewed sense of pride for the Army and all military branches, honoring service members with the respect they deserve.
3. Military recruitment has declined under Biden, but the Army successfully met its recruitment goals early this year. The parade highlighted the Army’s historic impact, showcasing recruits trained to operate state-of-the-art equipment like cannons, tanks, drones, and robotic dogs.
Trump frequently expresses concern for service members. In a brief address Saturday, Vice President JD Vance spoke directly to military personnel, reinforcing the commitment to not utilize military action lightly.
“The way we honor and respect you is by never asking you to go to war unless it is absolutely necessary. And when we do, we will provide you with the weapons and support needed to defeat the enemy and return safely,” Vance stated.
4. The parade signified strength on a global scale. Under Biden, the US has been perceived as weaker internationally, as noted by Federalist Editor-in-Chief Molly Hemingway. Countries like Russia, Iran, China, and North Korea undoubtedly monitored the display of military equipment and public reaction.
Our display was notably warmer and more friendly compared to parades in other nations, devoid of intimidating displays or uniformity. It showcased our robust history and promising future.
5. The event evoked feelings of patriotism without theatrics or controversy. Most attendees seemed connected to the military, allowing them to reflect on historical events their loved ones may have experienced.
The fireworks were plentiful enough to light a birthday candle in honor of all soldiers who did not return home. The music, synchronized with the fireworks, stirred emotions, evoking national pride and memories of profound sacrifices, all while resonating a message of unity.
It was a national moment that many discussed the next day.
What would it cost to offer a theater ticket to everyone who watched? It’s uncertain.
However, consider the expense of promoting $20 million for the “Sesame Street” show in Iraq, $25 million for “green transport” initiatives in Georgia, and $8 million dedicated to teaching Sri Lankan journalists about “non-binary gender language.”
It’s regrettable that protesters can’t momentarily shift their focus from fighting Trump to recognize the army that safeguards their freedom to protest.
Beth Blerge is a federalist election correspondent. She is an award-winning investigative journalist with decades of media experience.
Source: thefederalist.com