Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of War Pete Hegseth marked the Marine Corps’ 250th anniversary at Camp Pendleton, California, with speeches emphasizing unity and military readiness. The event, held on Saturday, featured an amphibious assault demonstration, speeches from military leaders, and a reminder of the Corps’ storied history. Vance, the first Marine to hold the office of vice president, joined the ceremony to honor the service of fellow Marines and acknowledge their critical role in national defense.
General Eric Smith, Commandant of the Marine Corps, addressed the crowd, describing the Corps as America’s ‘911 force.’ He warned that Marines must be prepared for any future conflict, emphasizing that the true strength of the Corps lies in the character and decisiveness of its members. ‘When it matters most, it’s not technology or equipment that wins the day, but the dependability, decisiveness, and character of the Marine or sailor who wields it,’ Smith said. He also thanked the families of Marines for their sacrifices, offering a blessing for their continued support.
Pete Hegseth, a combat veteran and Secretary of War, delivered one of the most fiery addresses of the day. He tied the Corps’ unity and mission to the administration’s broader themes of ‘America First’ and ‘peace through strength.’ Hegseth criticized political infighting, particularly the government shutdown, and urged the military to focus on its core mission. ‘The truth is, your diversity is not your strength. Never has been. Your strength is in your unity of purpose,’ he stated, drawing cheers from the crowd.
Vance used his speech to honor historical figures such as Medal of Honor recipient Sgt. Dakota Meyer and Navy corpsman Charles Cram, while also addressing current issues within Congress. He promised the administration would fight to ensure that enlisted Marines are paid, vowing that political battles in Washington should not come at the expense of soldiers and their families. The vice president also joked with the crowd, recounting a story about a gunnery sergeant who helped him avoid a high-interest car loan, emphasizing the bonds of camaraderie among Marines.
Meanwhile, tensions arose with California Governor Gavin Newsom over a highway closure for the Marine Corps’ celebration. Newsom’s office had previously clashed with the White House over the logistical aspects of the event, raising questions about the political implications of such military commemorations. The ceremony ended with the crowd roaring in approval, reaffirming the Marines’ commitment to their values of grit, sacrifice, and unity. As the event concluded, the Marine Corps’ enduring legacy was celebrated, with reminders of its role in shaping American history and protecting national interests.