U.S. Chief of Protocol Monica Crowley says supporters can expect a special moment for former President Donald Trump during an upcoming military parade — a crowd-led rendition of “Happy Birthday.”
The event, estimated to cost up to $45 million, coincides with Trump’s birthday on June 14, which also happens to be Flag Day. Crowley spoke about the parade during an appearance on Steve Bannon’s War Room podcast on Tuesday, defending the celebration amid media criticism.
“Obviously, the mainstream media is all over — this is Trump’s parade,” Bannon said. “The thing that this is much broader, right?”
Crowley confirmed the event is officially being held in honor of the U.S. Army’s 250th anniversary, but acknowledged Trump’s birthday is likely to play a part in the festivities.
“Yes, it’s a celebration of the [Army’s] 250th anniversary,” she explained. “And June 14th is a special day. Of course, it’s the president’s birthday. So I’m sure the crowd will break out into a ‘Happy Birthday’ song. Providential. And it’s also Flag Day, Steve. So meant to be. Hands of God. Hands of God for sure.”
Crowley said the event is being coordinated across several government departments, including the Department of Defense, the Department of the Interior, and the National Park Service. She emphasized that safety and security would be top priorities.
“But they are organizing with the Department of Defense, the Interior Department, the Park Service,” she said, “all of the elements that we need to carry off a huge event like this and to do it safely for all of our attendees, including the president, but everybody who comes understand that this will be a safe and glorious event.”
The parade has drawn some backlash for its cost and perceived association with Trump rather than its stated purpose of honoring the military. Still, organizers are leaning into the symbolism of the date, portraying the event as a patriotic celebration of the nation’s military heritage — with a presidential birthday bonus.
With the Army anniversary, Flag Day, and Trump’s birthday converging, Crowley called the timing “providential” and fitting for what she described as a “glorious” occasion.
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