Today in Washington, D.C., there is a Trump military parade commemorating the 250th birthday of the Army.

Washington — In addition to celebrating his 79th birthday, President Trump is taking part in a military parade on Saturday night to commemorate the Army's 250th anniversary.  

According to Army officials, the U.S. Army Grand Military Parade and Celebration is celebrating its 250th birthday with dozens of planes, thousands of men, and tanks. Additionally, officials anticipate that thousands, if not hundreds of thousands, will be there. 

Earlier this week, the president declared, "We are going to have a terrific time; we are going to have a great celebration,"

While celebrations are planned throughout day, the military parade does not start until 6:30 p.m. ET. 

Tanks have started coming and fence has been erected in the northwest section of Washington, near the White House and National Mall, as part of preparations that have been ongoing all week. 

What does the military parade serve to accomplish?

The activities on Saturday are meant to commemorate the Army's 250th birthday. Just over a year before the Declaration of Independence was issued, on June 14, 1775, the Second Continental Congress created the U.S. Army. George Washington served as its first commander, and it was first known as the Continental Army.

In a broader sense, the president has proclaimed Saturday to be a national celebration, honoring America's achievements on and off the battlefield. In particular, Mr. Trump has emphasized America's triumphs in World Wars I and II. 

The president stated on Wednesday, "I think it is time for us to celebrate a little bit, you know." "We have won numerous times. We have triumphed in two world wars. It is a time to honor our military, I believe. 

Soldiers and military hardware, by the numbers

According to Army officials, the march will look like this:

Approximately 6,600 soldiers

Six tanks of M1A1 Abrams

Two Sherman tanks from World War II

A total of eight CH-47 helicopters

16 Black Hawks UH-60

Four P-51 airplanes from Worl

d War II