Palantir, the data analysis and technology firm whose contracts with the federal government are expanding, and Coinbase, a cryptocurrency firm that donated to the president’s inauguration, also sponsored the event. Oracle, a database company whose co-founder is a close friend of Mr. Trump’s, received a shout-out on Saturday as a sponsor.

The parade, which was put on to celebrate the Army’s 250th anniversary and Trump’s 79th birthday, was reported to cost up to $45 million and drew thinner crowds than anticipated, as simultaneous “No Kings” protests took place in all 50 states.

Thousands turned out to enjoy festivities and a sprawling military parade in Washington, D.C., even as dismal weather forecasts and nationwide anti-Trump “No Kings” protests threatened to dampen the Army’s 250th birthday celebration.

The procession featured more than 6,000 soldiers, 128 Army tanks, aircraft flyovers, military bands, even robot dogs. Troops wore uniforms representing the Army’s history, including outfits from the Revolutionary War, Civil War, World War II, the Vietnam War and the Global War on Terror.

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The president celebrates the 250th anniversary of the US Army as demonstrators hold "No Kings" events from coast to coast.

Army's 250th anniversary celebrated with a military parade in Washington, D.C., on Trump's birthday. 'No Kings' protests by opponents are planned across the country.

Saturday saw a stark contrast in the U.S. as peaceful protesters took to the streets against President Trump while he oversaw a military parade in Washington celebrating the Army’s 250th birthday. MSNBC political analyst Alexi McCammond and Bloomberg Opinion senior executive editor Tim O’Brien join Alex Witt to weigh in with their analysis.

The parade was the spectacle event Trump had long wanted. It also helped sparked the largest mass opposition to him since his inauguration 145 days earlier.

The parade must go on, and the Army sidestepped a major crisis of image and messaging. The Army’s 250th birthday parade was not the grand military spectacle that many anticipated, and for that Americans can breathe a momentary, measured sigh of relief.

Pa., has voiced support for President Donald Trump’s military parade, saying Americans should support it regardless of politics. "This parade is comprised of our sons, daughters, mothers and fathers — the very best of us.

Sen. Rand Paul criticized the June 14 military parade, arguing that it was too expensive and “glorified” weapons.