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

President Trump watched the massive parade of U.S. military might roll down Constitution Avenue in Washington, D.C. CBS News' Natalie Brand reports.

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.

President Trump delivered remarks at the 250th Anniversary of the U.S. Army Grand Military Parade and Celebration, an event he envisioned.

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.

The parade - which which fell on Trump's 79th birthday - involved nearly 7,000 soldiers, flyovers and fireworks.

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,

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.