US Army 250th Anniversary Parade meant to inspire the future | 7News Salutes

WASHINGTON, D.C. (7News) — This weekend’s 250th Army Anniversary parade is more than just a spectacle honoring the U.S. Army’s past; it’s also meant to inspire future generations.

You may know the ancient Latin phrase: "If you want peace, prepare for war."

For 250 years, our soldiers in the U.S. Army have answered the call to protect this nation. Today, they have some of the most lethal tools on earth, and many of those will be on display this weekend.

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More than 90 powerful war machines, including Strykers, tactical vehicles, and Howitzer tanks, were transported more than 2,000 miles by rail from Central Texas to D.C.

Each Howitzer tank weighs nearly 38 tons. They carry a crew of four, can handle any terrain imaginable and can fire for a distance of 30 kilometers!

“It really earns the name ‘king of the battle,” said Army 1st Lt. Ryan Lewis. “This machine will launch a 100-pound round that can cause devastating effects on the enemy.”

In all, more than 150 war machines will be displayed during Saturday’s festivities, not to mention helicopters and airplanes.

“They’re fantastic, but what makes them powerful and lethal is the soldiers inside of them. And without those soldiers, these vehicles are nothing,” said Army Col. Kamil Sztalkoper.

More than 6,000 soldiers are taking part, many of them have never been to D.C.

But this is not just a duty. It’s a chance to share the heritage of this illustrious military branch.

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Spectators are encouraged to speak with the soldiers and ask about these vehicles.

“If we walk away with getting closer to the American public, our job is done,” said Col. Sztalkoper.

“I hope they feel pride in our military. They should know that they are safe and that we will always be here to defend the people of the United States,” said 1st Lt. Lewis.

It has been 34 years since D.C. last had a military parade. So, this will be a rare chance to see our military might in one place and celebrate the Army’s rich legacy.