The Commanders honored dads with a heartfelt post—but stayed silent on Trump’s military parade unfolding just miles away
21:14 ET, 15 Jun 2025Updated 21:14 ET, 15 Jun 2025
Donald Trump was joined by NFL commissioner Roger Goodell to announce the 2027 NFL draft in Washington, D.C(Image: Getty)
The Washington Commanders shared a heartfelt Father’s Day message on Sunday, posting a simple yellow heart on Instagram alongside the caption, “to all the dads.” The artwork in the post was created by the children of some players and coaches, adding a personal and family-oriented touch.
While the post resonated with fans celebrating the holiday, the timing made another omission all the more glaring: the team made no mention of the massive military parade unfolding just miles from their home stadium.
The army of tanks, flyovers, robot dogs, paratroopers, historic uniforms, and 6,700 troops commemorated the U.S. Army’s 250th anniversary and coincided with former President Donald Trump’s 79th birthday. Dubbed “Trump’s parade,” the cost — estimated at $45 million — and the timing sparked nationwide debate while leading to chaos after thousands were sent to the wrong entrance.
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Trump, who has long expressed admiration for military spectacles, addressed the crowd and oversaw a ceremonial oath for new Army recruits. The event’s overt nationalism and political overtones sparked both celebration and controversy.
While protests erupted around the city — some staying peaceful, others met with force — the Commanders remained publicly silent. That decision is notable for a team rooted in the D.C. area, one that typically embraces patriotic moments.
A military parade commemorating the Army’s 250th anniversary and coinciding with President Donald Trump’s 79th birthday took place in Washington on Saturday(Image: AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin)
The parade drew significant public attention: nationwide “No Kings” protests against perceived authoritarianism drew an estimated five million participants, with scattered violent incidents and aggressive security responses.
Trump himself threatened “very heavy force” for any disruptions. And while he spoke at the parade and oversaw oath-taking ceremonies, he made no mention of domestic tensions, recent assassinations, or the protests unfolding nationwide.
The contrast between the high-octane military celebration and the Commanders’ low-key Father’s Day post highlights a deliberate choice: to steer clear of the political spotlight and focus on something universally relatable.
The silence may reflect a conscious effort to avoid alienating fans. With a politically diverse fan base, any acknowledgment of Trump’s parade — whether supportive or critical — would likely stir backlash.
By sticking to a feel-good message celebrating fatherhood and featuring kids’ artwork, the Commanders crafted a post that felt safe, inclusive, and free of controversy.
There’s also the matter of brand alignment.
The Commanders have spent recent years trying to rebrand themselves around community values, youth engagement, and inclusivity.
Associating with a highly politicized event, even one involving the military, could run counter to that mission. Their Father’s Day post stayed true to the tone they’ve cultivated: warm, apolitical, and family-centered.