Washington: The grand military parade that President Donald Trump had been wanting for years barrelled down Constitution Avenue on Saturday with tanks, troops and a 21-gun salute, playing out against a counterpoint of protests around the country by those who decried the US leader as a dictator and would-be king.

The White House has said the administration was planning a historic celebration for the Army's 250th birthday. The Army was established on June 14, 1775,

Instead, the closest open metro exit to the National Mall will be at 12th and Independence Avenue, Southwest. Other nearby stations include Foggy Bottom, Farragut West and North, McPherson Square, Metro Center, Federal Triangle and Archives-Navy Memorial stations.

Rain dampened President Donald Trump's parade to celebrate the U.S. Army's 250th birthday with thousands of troops, 150 vehicles and 50 aircraft in a parade, concert and fireworks.