Vice President JD Vance Honors Marines at 250th Anniversary

Marines Ready to Fight

Vice President JD Vance joined Marines and sailors at Camp Pendleton, California, on Saturday to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Marine Corps. He praised the Corps for remaining “ready to fight and ready to win,” highlighting its unwavering commitment to national defense.

Amphibious Assault and Spectacle

The celebration kicked off with helicopters roaring overhead and amphibious vehicles charging through the surf. Marines stormed Red Beach as families shaded their eyes from the sun and Ospreys thundered above. Second Lady Usha Vance joined her husband to watch the display.

This year’s event marked 250 years since the Continental Congress authorized the Marine Corps in 1775.

The Sound and Look of Freedom

General Eric Smith, Commandant of the Marine Corps, addressed the crowd. He called the Corps America’s “911 force” and warned that the next fight is always on the horizon.

“The next fight is coming. Marines will be ready. Ready to fight. Ready to win,” Smith declared.

He emphasized that technology alone does not secure victory. Instead, dependability, decisiveness, and character define a Marine or sailor. He concluded by thanking families for their sacrifices and offering a blessing.

Strength in Unity

Secretary of War Pete Hegseth delivered a fiery address, drawing on his own combat experience. He praised the Corps for standing strong when others faltered.

“I’m not supposed to say this, really not. But I think you guys might be my favorite,” Hegseth said.

He tied the Corps’ mission to broader themes of America First, peace through strength, and practical leadership. Hegseth stressed that true strength comes from unity, not diversity.

“Your strength is in your unity of purpose. It’s in your shared mission. It’s in your oath to the Constitution. You are set apart—devil dogs, leathernecks, United States Marines,” he said, drawing cheers from the crowd.

Vice President Vance’s Tribute

When Vance took the stage, the crowd erupted. He opened with:

“God bless you, Marines.”

Chants of “Oorah!” echoed as he reminded the audience that he is the first Marine to serve as vice president.

“From one Marine to another, thank you for your service,” he said.
“The display we saw earlier made my heart sing. It reminded me why I am proud to have worn the uniform and to be the first vice president who is a United States Marine.”

Vance honored heroes, remembered the fallen, and reflected on his own service. He highlighted Medal of Honor recipient Sgt. Dakota Meyer, Navy corpsman Charles Cram who helped raise the flag at Iwo Jima, and Navy aviator Elmer Royce Williams, who survived the longest dogfight in American history.