The primary stated reason for the Grand Military Parade is to celebrate the US Army’s 250th birthday. Like other military branches, the Army has struggled to meet its enlistment quotas for over the past decade. WASHINGTON, DC - JUNE 14: An Army festival attendee holds a M3 Carl Gustav Recoilless Rifle on June 14, 2025 in Washington, DC. Attendees were in raptures over the quadcopter drone gun, or a Gatling gun, or really any of the other guns available (except for those historic guns, those were only maybe cool). Members of the U.S. Army drive Bradley Fighting Vehicles in the 250th birthday parade on June 14, 2025 in Washington, DC.