Trump's birthday bash: Tank parade to weigh on DC streets
On June 14th, a military parade will take place in Washington to celebrate the 250th birthday of the American Army. It coincides with Donald Trump's 79th birthday. Among the equipment on display will be Abrams tanks. However, it was realized at the last moment that these tanks are too heavy for the city's streets.
The Associated Press reported that authorities decided to place large, reinforced metal plates on crucial parts of Washington’s streets to safeguard the pavement from potential damage caused by the passage of 25 M1 Abrams tanks scheduled to roll through the capital on June 14th.
Preparations for the parade
The Abrams tanks are to be one of the main highlights of the parade, so the idea of not showing them is not being considered.
The Associated Press reminds us that each tank weighs over 132,000 pounds and is operated by a four-person crew. The metal plates, which weigh hundreds of pounds, are to be placed in areas where the tanks are expected to turn, in order to minimize damage.
The costs of the event will be huge
The parade and accompanying events could cost between $25 million and $45 million. Approximately 6,600 soldiers, 150 various vehicles, and 50 helicopters are scheduled to participate.
According to the plan, every military conflict in which the United States participated will be represented by 60 soldiers in historical uniforms and 400 soldiers in current combat uniforms.
Will tanks damage Washington streets?
Ultimately, the costs of the parade could be even higher because, according to Reuters, the quoted amounts do not include cleanup costs and potential damages. Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser emphasized that if the tanks could damage the roads, then funds for their repair should be included at the planning stage of the event.
Americans attending the parade will have the opportunity to see the Abrams tanks, most likely the M1A2 SEPv3 version, up close. These tanks are equipped with a 120 mm smoothbore cannon, a remotely controlled weapon station (CROWS) with a large-caliber 12.7 mm machine gun, and two 7.62 mm machine guns. Each tank measures nearly 33 feet in length and almost 13 feet in width. Despite this size and the aforementioned weight of over 132,000 pounds, the tank can accelerate to speeds of over 40 mph due to its 1500 horsepower engine.
