Military Parade Honors Army’s 250-Year History
Army’s grandeur on Saturday coincides with president’s 79th birthday while millions protest across the country.
With the White House in the backdrop, First Lady Melania Trump stood alongside her husband Saturday in the viewing stand watching the United States Army’s 250th anniversary parade that coincided with president’s 79th birthday.
The military parade, at the request of President Trump, drew an estimated 200,000 people while millions of people across the country participated in some 2,000 protests dubbed “No Kings” in opposition of his policies. The parade, which stepped off early under the threat of heavy rain, featured more than 6,000 troops marching near the National Mall at an estimated cost of up to $45 million. There were 128 Army tanks, armored personnel carriers, and artillery while 62 aircraft passed overhead.
The parade told the Army’s story, starting with the Battle of Lexington—the first battle of the Revolutionary War—and moved all the way to present day, according to The Associated Press.
The first lady did not speak at the event, but did assist in facilitating the singing of “Happy Birthday” to the president at the conclusion of the event. Mrs. Trump wore an American-made, ivory and navy pinstripe suit. The double-breasted jacket and skirt were made by U.S. designer Adam Lippes, who also designed the navy suite she wore at her husband’s second inauguration.
The president and first lady were joined by members of his administration, military leaders, veterans, active-duty troops, wounded warriors, Gold Star Families and everyday Americans from all over the country.
Barbara Bush Foundation Celebrates the Former First Lady’s Centennial in Maine
The Barbara Bush Foundation for Family Literacy hosted its Maine Celebration of Reading on Tuesday at the Vinegar Hill Music Theatre in Arundel, Maine. The event, held to raise support for the Barbara Bush Foundation’s nationwide literacy work, featured appearances by New York Times bestselling authors and special guests including Claire Lombardo, Dani Shapiro and Chris Whitaker, as well as a video message from Jenna Bush Hager.
The Maine Celebration of Reading was one in a three-day series of events held in the Kennebunkport area to honor the former first lady’s life and legacy–especially her passion for literacy.
“Reading and writing have offered solace in some of the most challenging moments of my life, so I know firsthand the power that literacy has to change lives,” said Chris Whitaker. “These are true gifts that everyone should have access to and I’m grateful to the Barbara Bush Foundation for the critical work they do and for the opportunity to support its mission.”
Whitaker’s most recent novel, All the Colors of the Dark, was a New York Times bestseller, as well as a TODAY Read with Jenna book club selection in 2024. Read with Jenna is participating in the Foundation’s series of Celebration of Reading events throughout the year. Jenna Bush Hager provided a special message to Maine Celebration of Reading attendees via video.
“My grandmother had an enormous influence on my love of reading. She taught me that the written word has incredible power to change hearts and minds,” said Jenna Bush Hager. “She believed that a parent is a child’s first and best teacher. Now as a mom of three, I know how fortunate I am to have the opportunity to share my love of reading with my own children. Her hope was that every family in America would have that same opportunity to experience the joy of reading and to pass it down to their children.”
The event was hosted by Doro Bush Koch, daughter of Barbara Bush and President George H.W. Bush, who serves as the Foundation’s honorary chair.
“It is particularly meaningful to honor my mother here in Maine, where my family has made countless special memories over the years,” said Doro Bush Koch. “Mom never really liked to celebrate her birthday, but she took every opportunity to highlight the importance of literacy, so I know that she would be thrilled to see so many people paying tribute to her by supporting the cause that meant so much to her.”
Throughout 2025, the Foundation is celebrating the Barbara Bush Centennial—a yearlong series of special initiatives honoring the 100th anniversary of Barbara Bush’s birth. In addition to the Maine Celebration of Reading, the Foundation has hosted events in New York City and Miami, Florida. The initiative will culminate in a National Celebration of Reading, to be held on November 6, 2025, in Washington, D.C., where the Foundation is headquartered.
Calendar
June 19, 2025
Third Thursday Wine & Cheese: Mary Lincoln’s Fashion Legacy
To honor Juneteenth, for one night only, the National First Ladies Library & Museum will unveil a breathtaking Civil War-era capelet designed by former First Lady Mary Lincoln’s dressmaker and confidante, Elizabeth Keckley—a talented Black designer who left a lasting mark on fashion and history. This exclusive, in-person showcase at 6:30 p.m EST will transport visitors to an era where style and politics intertwined, offering a rare glimpse into the first lady’s wardrobe and her remarkable relationship with Keckley. Read more
June 23, 2025
Cooking with the First Ladies with Sarah Morgan
The National First Ladies Library & Museum presents “Cooking with the First Ladies With Sarah Morgan,” a virtual program exploring the life and legacy of Barbara Bush—the beloved first lady known for her grace, compassion, and commitment to literacy. This virtual program brings history and cooking together and will guide participants through a recipe that Barbara Bush herself loved while sharing fascinating stories from Barbara’s time in the White House. Read more
June 25, 2025
People’s House Party: 1970s Prom Night
The People’s House is ready to boogie by celebrating the 50th anniversary of the first and only White House prom with a party at The People’s House: A White House Experience!
Your ticket includes two drink tickets and light 70s-themed snacks, as well as pop-up activities, prom bouquet making, and after-hours access to the galleries. And, 1970s disco or prom attire is strongly encouraged.
This event is in celebration of Civic Season, which takes place between Juneteenth and July 4, uniting our oldest federal holiday with our newest. This nationwide initiative, organized by Made By Us, connects Gen Z to history and civic engagement. Tickets can be purchased here.
July 17, 2025
Third Thursday Wine & Cheese: An Evening with Ida Saxton McKinley
The National First Ladies Library & Museum will host “Third Thursday Wine & Cheese: An Evening with Ida Saxton McKinley” on July 17 at the Saxton-McKinley House in Canton, Ohio, for a summer evening filled with flavor and history. Attendees will enjoy a curated selection of wines and cheeses while exploring First Lady Ida Saxton McKinley’s personal White House effects—featuring authentic artifacts from her years as first lady. Wander through her beautifully preserved childhood home and the First Ladies urban garden while uncovering behind-the-scenes stories of the Saxton-McKinley family. Read more
July 18, 2025
Legacy Lecture: Jackie and the Summer White House with Kate Storey
The National First Ladies Library & Museum presents a virtual lunchtime lecture with Kate Storey, bestselling author of White House by the Sea and Features Director at Rolling Stone. On Friday, July 18 at noon ET, Storey will share the behind-the-scenes of Jackie Kennedy’s life at the Summer White House in Hyannis Port—where history, family, and legacy collided.
This iconic Cape Cod retreat was Jackie’s sanctuary: where she raised her children, wrote “The Campaign Wife,” and also grieved after JFK’s assassination. You'll get a glimpse into the Kennedy family’s private world and the woman who helped define an era of American style and strength. Read more
July 19, 2025
Children's Book Talk: First Ladies Make History
George Washington’s Mount Vernon presents a reading of First Ladies Make History by authors Anita McBride and Giovanna McBride at 12:30 p.m. in the Robert H. and Clarice Smith Auditorium. This children’s book explains there is no rule book defining the role of the first lady, yet the first ladies have worked hard to make the world a better place for more than two hundred years. First Ladies Make History takes young readers on a journey with the first ladies to discover the important contributions they have made throughout American history. Pick up your copy at The Shops at Mount Vernon, and have it signed from 1 to 2 p.m. Read more
Submit calendar items, announcements and press releases to East Wing Magazine at jtaylor@eastwingmagazine.com.