Fort Bragg Units Take Center Stage in Army’s 250th Anniversary Celebration in D.C.

Washington, D.C. — Soldiers, helicopters, and historic units from Fort Bragg were among the most prominent contributors to the U.S. Army’s 250th birthday celebration held in the nation’s capital on Friday, June 14, 2025. The milestone event featured a large-scale parade along Constitution Avenue, historical reenactments, community engagement efforts, and an impressive display of Army modernization—highlighting Fort Bragg’s deep-rooted role in the history and future of the Army.

Fort Bragg’s Operational Contribution

Fort Bragg, home to the XVIII Airborne Corps and 82nd Airborne Division, played a critical role in staffing and showcasing the Army’s capabilities during the celebration. More than 900 troops from Fort Bragg marched in the parade, including a heritage unit dressed in WWII-era uniforms that honored the Army’s airborne legacy.

In addition, Fort Bragg provided:

• Over 600 ceremonial support soldiers
• Approximately 70 ground vehicles, such as artillery systems, Humvees, and Infantry Squad Vehicles
• More than 40 helicopters, including Black Hawks, Apaches, and Chinooks, flown in to support flyovers and static displays

These contributions formed a significant portion of the larger national showcase, which involved 6,600 active-duty soldiers, 150+ military vehicles, and over 50 aircraft sourced from installations across the country.

Overview of the Day in D.C.

The celebration began in the morning with a wreath-laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery, followed by a full parade along Constitution Avenue in the early afternoon. Crowds lined the streets to witness processions of historical and modern Army units, precision marching formations, vintage and active combat vehicles, and flyovers by Army aviation.

Interactive stations were also set up on the National Mall for the public, featuring Army technology demonstrations, virtual reality simulations, STEM exhibits, historical artifacts, and fitness challenges. Fort Bragg soldiers helped staff several of these exhibits, engaging with visitors and offering hands-on experiences related to airborne operations, logistics, and modern warfare technology.

Families were invited to participate in physical readiness tests, view historical Army uniforms, and speak directly with enlisted personnel about military life and careers. Children were given commemorative dog tags and U.S. Army-themed activity books.

Community Engagement Before the Parade

Prior to the Washington events, Fort Bragg soldiers traveled to Raleigh and Durham, NC, to engage in community outreach as part of the Army’s broader birthday week. They distributed birthday cards, visited local high schools, and participated in conversations about military service, leadership, and values.

In Fayetteville, local events were also held at the U.S. Army Airborne & Special Operations Museum, where educational displays and a birthday cake cutting ceremony were open to the public. Fort Bragg paratroopers performed a live demonstration at Smith Lake, showcasing static-line jump techniques to local youth programs and veterans.

Highlighting Army Modernization

A significant theme of the 250th celebration

was Army modernization. In coordination with Army Futures Command, the parade and displays emphasized advances in robotics, cyber operations, space defense, and vertical lift aircraft. Fort Bragg units highlighted their role in rapid deployment and integration of new technologies, particularly with the 82nd Airborne’s Global Response Force capabilities.

Soldiers with 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division spoke to attendees in D.C. about rapid force projection and how Fort Bragg continues to serve as the Army’s strategic platform for airborne operations and expeditionary readiness.

A Moment of Reflection and Pride

General Gary M. Brito, commanding general of U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command, reflected during a brief address: “This day is about honoring the past and preparing for the future. Fort Bragg’s presence here represents not only history but forward-looking strength.”

While the atmosphere was celebratory, it also

carried a tone of solemn recognition—particularly for those soldiers lost in service. Military bands from Fort Bragg played “The Army Goes Rolling Along” and other ceremonial pieces throughout the event, with a moment of silence observed at 3 p.m.

Looking Ahead

Fort Bragg’s involvement in the 250th Army Birthday celebration reaffirmed its identity as a core institution within the U.S. military. As the Army continues to evolve, Bragg’s units remain central to its global mission—supporting operations, developing leaders, and preserving history.

Community members from Cumberland County and across North Carolina watched proudly as local soldiers took center stage in one of the largest ceremonial events in modern Army history.

Kres Thomas
FayToday News

Photo Credits:
Photo by Laura Buchta
Photo by Sgt. Ashleigh Maxwell
Photo by Spc. Jesus Menchaca
Photo by Pfc. Prim Hibbard
Photo by Spc. Jayreliz Batista Prado
Photo by Sgt. Ashleigh Maxwell
Photo by Staff Sgt. Rene Rosas