President Donald Trump praised the United States Army as the “greatest, fiercest and bravest fighting force” at the conclusion of a grand display of military might in the nation’s capital Saturday as the Army celebrated its 250th birthday with a parade.

The largest military parade in Washington in decades unfolded Saturday alongside hundreds of protests against it, and its chief organizer

Thousands of demonstrators crowded into streets, parks, and plazas across the US, blaring anti-authoritarian chants mixed with support for protecting democracy and immigrant rights.

Vice President Vance spoke at the Army’s 250th anniversary parade, saying how proud he is of U.S. soldiers. He also wished President Trump a happy birthday and nodded to his wife on their wedding anniversary.

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 is telling the story of the U.S. Army’s history, beginning with the Revolutionary War. Soldiers are marching in historic uniforms, with military assets from each major conflict represented.