The nation’s capital on Saturday was overtaken by the sight of tanks rolling down the street and Army helicopters buzzing in the sky for a military parade to mark the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army.

The much-talked about event, which also fell on President Trump’s 79th birthday, featured military vehicles and members of the Army marching down Constitution Avenue for a parade that had become a source of controversy in recent weeks. The event drew thousands of spectators despite the threat of rain.

Here are five takeaways from the parade.

Trump keeps things brief

Trump spoke at the conclusion of the parade on Saturday, keeping remarks short and framing the event as a celebration of the country’s military successes.

“Every other country celebrates their victories. It’s about time America did, too,” Trump said in prepared remarks. “That’s what we’re doing tonight.”

Saturday’s event came amid turmoil at home and on the world stage, but there was no mention from Trump of outside events. He spoke for about eight minutes, focusing on the Army’s origins and several specific instances of bravery from soldiers in wars throughout American history.

“Watching this magnificent display, our souls are filled with gratitude for every generation of warriors who have worn the uniform back to the very beginning,” Trump said.

Trump saluted service members at various points of Saturday’s parade, and at one point he administered the oath of enlistment to a group of new recruits.

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