A now-deleted Army video showing tanks being loaded onto a train bound for Washington, D.C., for the Army’s 250th anniversary parade revealed a graffiti message spray-painted on the train car that read “Hang Fauci & Bill Gates.” The video, initially posted on the Army’s X account, has since been removed. The footage depicted an M1A2 Abrams tank being loaded onto a train car at Fort Cavazos in Texas.
The threatening message targeting Fauci and Gates, who have been targets of criticism from President Donald Trump’s supporters, was painted on a train car marked DODX, belonging to the Defense Department. Despite the alarming graffiti, the Army spokesperson Steve Warren stated that the Army has no intention to investigate the incident. He mentioned, “We took down the post upon noticing the graffiti that goes against Army values. We are looking forward to celebrating 250 years of service to the nation next week.”
Dr. Anthony Fauci, known for his leadership in the government’s response to COVID during Trump’s administration, and Bill Gates, the Microsoft founder, have often been the subjects of criticism from Republicans and Trump supporters. Fauci has recounted receiving numerous death threats and harassment due to his prominent role in handling the pandemic. The former President Joe Biden preemptively pardoned Fauci before leaving office, fearing retaliation from Trump. Gates, a Democratic donor and advocate for global vaccination efforts, has also been targeted in conspiracy theories.
The military parade scheduled for June 14 in Washington, D.C., to commemorate the Army’s 250th anniversary will feature 28 tanks and over two dozen armored vehicles that are being transported via train and will be unloaded in Jessup, Maryland, on June 9. They will then be transported to downtown Washington by truck. Precautions are being taken to protect the roads from damage caused by the heavy vehicles during the parade. The event has drawn attention for coinciding with Trump’s birthday and is expected to cost up to $40 million. Additionally, approximately 7,000 soldiers will be present for the celebration, which will showcase historic elements.
This article, originally featured on USA TODAY, discusses the removal of a video showing a parade tank with graffiti reading ‘Hang Fauci & Bill Gates’. The video featured various military vehicles such as warplanes, helicopters, and parachutists, along with a range of events and entertainment.
