WASHINGTON, D.C. (Erie News Now) — A large military parade to celebrate the 250th birthday of the United States Army brought thousands to the National Mall in Washington, D.C. 

The force of America’s military was on full display — in the skies and on the streets of the nation’s capital. 

On his 79th birthday, President Trump joined in the celebration of the U.S. Army’s 250th birthday. 

“Every other country celebrates their victories. It's about time America did, too,” said President Trump. 

Thousands of soldiers, veterans and civilians had a front-row seat to witness the military spectacle in Washington. 

“The more it's come close to this, it's made me think about the military people who don't get a lot of recognition. I think this is a really fun day for them to get out and just to be seen and celebrated,” said Gina Witcher from Baltimore, Maryland. 

“Even though I'm a Navy veteran, I wanted to support the oldest branch and let them know how much we as a country appreciate them,” said Adol Owen-Williams, a local Navy veteran. 

“This is a celebration of the United States military. It is not a fear like Russia, China, you know, North Korea,” said Robert Philpot, a Navy veteran from Cincinnati, Ohio. “But here you can come and celebrate and other nationalities come here and celebrate in peace and pride.” 

Some veterans we spoke with served our country for decades. They’re happy to see this milestone celebrated. 

“The Army's history is America's history. 250 years. The Army predates the United States,” said David Sloniker, an Army veteran from Arlington, Virginia. 

The total cost of today’s military parade is estimated between $25 million and $45 million, and comes at a time when the Trump administration and Republicans are looking to slash federal spending. 

But Sloniker said the parade is about more than numbers or costs. 

“Regardless of the politics and how you think about the parade, the idea behind the parade is to celebrate our nation's history, to celebrate our Army,” said Sloniker.