The French are preparing to mark their national day today, known as July 14th in France and Bastille Day abroad, with European Union leaders joining the French president for the world's oldest military parade.<br />'' <br />'' This year celebrates the 230th anniversary of the storming of the Bastille prison in Paris, a turning point in the French revolution that set the stage for the birth of the Republic.<br />'' <br />'' Armed forces from France and allied countries will march, drive, ride and fly over the central Champs Elysee.<br />'' <br />'' Leaders from key EU countries, including German Chancellor Angela Merkel and UK Prime Minister Theresa May, have been invited to join President Emmanuel Macron as he addresses the troops.<br />'' <br />'' French President Emmanuel Macron has announced that he was creating a national military space force command that would eventually be part of his country's air force. <br />