Vice President JD Vance celebrated the Marine Corps 250th anniversary at Camp Pendleton on Saturday, where military leaders warned of future conflicts and discussed the Corps’ core strengths and readiness.
Vance Honors Marine Heritage and Service
Vance, the first Marine to serve as vice president, spoke after an amphibious assault demonstration on Red Beach. “It reminded me why I am so proud to have worn the uniform…and to be the very first vice president to have been a United States Marine,” Vance said.
He connected the event to the Corps’ founding at Tun Tavern in 1775 and its storied history in battles from Belleau Wood to Helmand. Vance honored specific heroes, including Medal of Honor recipient Sgt.
Dakota Meyer and Iwo Jima flag-raiser Charles Cram.
Leaders Address Marine Corps 250th Anniversary
General Eric Smith, Commandant of the Marine Corps, described the force as America’s “911 force” and delivered a direct warning. “The next fight is coming. Marines will be ready.
Ready to fight. Ready to win,” Smith stated.
He emphasized that the character of individual service members is the ultimate factor in combat. “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 added.
Hegseth: Diversity is Not Your Strength
Secretary of War Pete Hegseth also addressed the Marines, stating that the Corps’ primary strength is its unity. Hegseth tied the force’s values to the administration’s theme of America First and peace through strength.
“The truth is, your diversity is not your strength. Never has been,” Hegseth said. “Your strength is in your unity of purpose.
It’s in your shared mission.”
Vance Pledges Fight for Marine Pay Amid Shutdown
During his JD Vance Camp Pendleton speech, the vice president criticized Democrats in Congress over the looming government shutdown. He promised the administration would fight to ensure enlisted Marines get paid without interruption.
“We will do everything possible to make sure enlisted Marines get paid,” Vance declared. “Political battles in Washington should not come at the expense of troops and their families.”
A Personal Connection to the Corps
Vance shared personal stories from his service, including how a gunnery sergeant saved him from a 22% interest used car loan. “That gunny’s leadership didn’t just save me money,” Vance recalled. “It taught me that Marines look out for each other.”
He concluded his remarks with a direct message to the assembled troops. “Keep kicking a–. Keep taking names.
Semper Fidelis, Marines,” Vance said.
