Parade in Pyongyang marks founding of NKorea

Civil defense forces carrying rifles paraded North Korea's capital overnight in a celebration of the nation's 73rd anniversary that was a marked departure from past militaristic displays.

The parade centered around paramilitary organizations and public security forces protecting Pyongyang instead of the major military units that handle the most important weapons of Kim's nuclear and missile arsenal.

Thursday's state media reports on the event that began late Wednesday indicated its message was aimed at a domestic audience instead of displaying the country's growing military might to the United States.