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Fact check: What was the date of the Army parade where Trump allegedly fell asleep?

Checked on June 21, 2025

1. Summary of the results

Based on the analyses provided, the Army parade where Trump allegedly fell asleep took place on June 14, 2025 [1] [2]. This date is confirmed by multiple sources that specifically mention the parade occurred on June 14, 2025, which marked the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army and coincided with Trump's 79th birthday [3] [1] [2]. The event was held on a Saturday [3] [4] and featured a military parade in Washington with a specific parade route and schedule [2].

The incident of Trump allegedly falling asleep during this parade is documented across multiple sources, with some describing him as appearing to doze off during his own birthday military celebration [5] [6]. Additional reports suggest that not only Trump but also Melania Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio showed signs of fatigue during the event, with Melania allegedly napping and Rubio yawning [4].

2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints

The original question focuses solely on the sleeping allegation but omits several important contextual elements. The parade was not merely a routine military event but a significant ceremonial occasion marking both the Army's 250th anniversary and serving as part of Trump's 2025 comeback tour [7].

There appears to be a stark contrast in how different sources covered the event. While some sources focused on the alleged sleeping incident and portrayed it negatively, describing Trump as the "Snooze-In-Chief" [6], other sources presented a more traditional ceremonial perspective, showing Trump saluting during the national anthem and honoring the Army's anniversary [8]. This suggests the event may have been selectively reported depending on the outlet's editorial stance.

The timing of this parade as part of Trump's political activities could benefit media organizations seeking engagement through sensationalized coverage, as well as political opponents who might use such incidents to question Trump's fitness or attention span during official duties.

3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement

The original question contains an inherent bias by using the word "allegedly" while simultaneously treating the sleeping incident as an established fact by asking for the specific date. This framing assumes the incident occurred without acknowledging that the sleeping allegation itself may be disputed or subject to interpretation.

The question also lacks context about the dual significance of the event - both as Trump's birthday celebration and the Army's 250th anniversary commemoration [3] [1]. By focusing exclusively on the sleeping allegation, the question strips away the ceremonial and historical importance of the occasion, potentially misleading readers about the nature and purpose of the parade.

Furthermore, the selective focus on negative aspects while ignoring positive coverage, such as Trump's participation in ceremonial duties like saluting during the national anthem [8], suggests a potential bias in how the question was formulated and what aspects of the event are being emphasized.

Want to dive deeper?
What was the significance of Trump's attendance at the July 4 2019 Army parade?
Did Trump actually fall asleep during the Army parade or was it a misunderstanding?
How did the media cover Trump's alleged sleep during the Army parade?
What was the official response from the White House regarding Trump's behavior at the parade?
Which other public figures have been accused of falling asleep during official events?