Vice President JD Vance’s visit to Camp Pendleton last Saturday offered a live display of military might, celebrating the Marine Corps’ 250th anniversary with impressive precision. The amphibious assault demonstration, deemed the largest in over a decade, drew thousands and was highlighted by sophisticated military assets, including live artillery, Navy warships, and fighter jets.
In a direct and confident tone, Vance posted on his official Twitter account: “These guys are BAD*SS! How could anyone not be proud to be an American?” The enthusiasm of the event resonated throughout the crowd, with spectators witnessing Marines storming Red Beach amidst the roar of explosions in the distance.
Approximately 8,500 Marines and sailors participated in the hour-long exercise, which involved the coordination of nine warships offshore and air support from F-18 Hornets and V-22 Ospreys. M777 howitzers launched 155 mm shells, illustrating the readiness and capabilities that are essential for real-world operations. Navy SEALs and Recon Marines executed simulated amphibious landings, evoking historical military operations that have defined U.S. military strength.
Among the notable attendees were Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Marine Commandant Gen. Eric Smith, both of whom addressed the crowd. Vance, a Marine Corps veteran, emphasized the necessity of discipline and readiness within the military. He argued against diversity quotas in the armed forces, stating, “When officials try to shift focus to mandating diversity quotas…they impede the Marine Corps’ ability to do its best work.” His sentiment was echoed by Hegseth, underscoring that unity of purpose is essential to military strength.
However, the event was not without its challenges. California Governor Gavin Newsom raised concerns regarding the live artillery fire over a busy highway, criticizing it as a dangerous practice. He ordered the California Highway Patrol to close a stretch of I-5, suggesting that using military exercises to intimidate dissenters reflects poorly on leadership. Vance’s communications director quickly rebutted, advising that live-fire exercises are standard practice at Camp Pendleton and affirmed by the Marine Corps as safe.
This controversy didn’t detract from the exercise’s impact. The freeway closure created considerable disruptions, generating long detours for residents and businesses. Local officials criticized the governor’s actions, framing them as politically motivated rather than safety-driven. Despite these logistical challenges, the spirit among Marines and families at the event remained high. They cheered as coordinated military actions unfolded, enjoying the thrilling atmosphere of the demonstrations.
In the midst of showcasing military capabilities, Vance addressed the looming government shutdown, reinforcing the importance of timely pay for military personnel. His light-hearted remarks communicated both concern and urgency regarding the situation, emphasizing that a delay in military pay could impact local businesses and morale.
Vance conveyed a message from President Trump, directing blame at Senate Democrats for the shutdown, indicating the administration’s commitment to ensuring military personnel are compensated fairly during challenging times. However, the impending furloughs for civilian workers highlighted the complex ramifications of budgetary disputes.
Protests at the base’s entrance added a layer of complexity to the day’s events. Members of the “No Kings” movement criticized the perceived militarization of political theater. Although the criticism echoed outside the demonstration, it largely went unnoticed by attendees focused on the military display inside.
In a broader strategic context, the drill emphasized the ongoing relevance of amphibious warfare. With geopolitical tensions surging in the Pacific, the demonstration outlined the Navy and Marine Corps’ commitment to agility and readiness, showcasing their capacity to project U.S. power effectively.
Vance concluded, “From these mountains and this water, Marines have deployed to every major fight in the last century. That’s exactly what Marines do.” The weekend’s exhibition not only paid homage to military tradition but also solidified operational readiness, drawing lines in the political landscape. As spectators departed, the lingering sense of pride and acknowledgment of military prowess was palpable, demonstrating that such showings resonate deeply, regardless of political perspective.
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