NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!
Vice President JD Vance joined Marines and sailors at Camp Pendleton in California on Saturday for the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Marine Corps, telling the crowd that the Corps remains ready to fight and ready to win.
The anniversary event included an amphibious assault demonstration on Red Beach, speeches from military leaders and cabinet officials, and a reminder from Vance that he is the first Marine to serve as vice president.
Helicopters roared overhead and amphibious vehicles surged through the surf as Marines charged the beach to open the ceremony. Second Lady Usha Vance accompanied her husband to watch the display while families shaded their eyes and Ospreys thundered overhead.
This year’s ceremony marked a quarter millennium since the Continental Congress first authorized the Marine Corps in 1775.
NEWSOM CLASHES WITH WHITE HOUSE OVER MARINE CORPS ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION HIGHWAY CLOSURE
Vice President JD Vance speaks during the Marine Corps’ 250th anniversary celebration at Camp Pendleton, Calif., Saturday. (AP Photo/Gregory Bull)
General Eric Smith, Commandant of the Marine Corps, told the crowd that what they were seeing was the sound and look of freedom. He described the Corps as America’s “911 force” and warned that Marines must be ready for whatever comes next.
“The next fight is coming,” he said. “Marines will be ready. Ready to fight. Ready to win.”
The next fight is coming. Marines will be ready. Ready to fight. Ready to win.
“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 ended by thanking families and offering a blessing for their sacrifices.
VP VANCE’S CAMP ACCUSES CALIFORNIA GOV. GAVIN NEWSOM OF DISSEMINATING ‘FAKE NEWS’ AHEAD OF MARINES CELEBRATION
Secretary of War Pete Hegseth delivers remarks…
