WASHINGTON — The U.S. Army reported Monday that initial assessments show no discernible damage to D.C. streets from Saturday's military parade celebrating the Army's 250th birthday, despite concerns about 70-ton tanks and heavy military vehicles rolling through the nation's capital.

The commander-in-chief initially barred black soldiers from joining the ranks, but he came to understand the value—both moral and strategic—of a diverse force.

In preparation for the event, Army engineers installed steel plates in 13 locations along the parade route to protect roads where they would be most vulnerable.

On June 14, 1775, the Continental Congress voted to replace the colonies' part-time militias with a full-time army – and after 1,300 battles and skirmishes, the Army, led by Gen. George Washington, defeated the British Empire,

WASHINGTON (AP) — There were funnel cakes, stands of festival bling and American flags aplenty. There were mighty machines of war, brought out to dazzle and impress. And there was the spray of tear gas against demonstrators in Los Angeles and Atlanta, and rolling waves of anti-Trump resistance coast to coast.

There is a significant chance of rain across the Washington, D.C., area on Saturday, the National Weather Service said, and thunderstorms late in the afternoon or evening could coincide with events near the National Mall to mark the U.S. Army’s 250th birthday.

The Army plans an elaborate display of armor, artillery and aircraft for its 250th anniversary parade June 14.

Protests are planned in hundreds of communities across the country on Saturday, June 14.Called "No Kings Day," the rallies are being held to oppose what organizers see as Trump's power grab and focus on participants' patriotism and support for the U.S. Constitution. American flags are expected to be front and center.