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Vice President JD Vance received a rousing welcome at the Marine Corps’ 250th Birthday Ball in Washington, D.C., on Saturday, as he addressed a ballroom filled with Marines in dress blues.
“How we doing, Marines?” Vance called out to thunderous applause. “It’s so great to be here to celebrate 250 years of the United States Marine Corps.”
The vice president’s appearance at the gala marked the beginning of Veterans Day weekend and highlighted the administration’s focus on military strength and service. As Vance reminded the crowd, he holds a unique distinction in American history as “the very first vice president of the United States to have been a United States Marine,” a declaration that earned him a standing ovation.
Throughout his address, Vance reflected on his personal journey with the Corps, recalling his arrival at Parris Island, South Carolina, as a 19-year-old recruit. “The Marine Corps has kept me honest,” he said. “It gave me great training, it gave me a sense of purpose, and it gave me lifelong friends.”
The vice president connected his military service to his current role in government, promising that “so long as I have the honor of being your vice president, I will continue to honor the United States Marine Corps.”
In a moment of levity that resonated with the crowd, Vance shared an encounter from earlier in the evening with a 99-year-old Iwo Jima veteran who had teased him about his beard. “I’m the Vice President of the United States, and this guy is busting my balls for having a beard,” Vance said with a laugh. “That, my friends, is what the Marine Corps does — it keeps us honest.”
The vice president’s speech balanced humor with solemn commitments to the military community. He paid tribute to Marines of all generations, “from the young to the old, from the lance corporals born in 2006 to the veterans of Iwo Jima,” and vowed that America would “keep on winning America’s wars for the next 250 years.”
Addressing concerns about military deployments, Vance made a pointed promise regarding future conflicts. “When we send you off to fight our nation’s battles, we will do it with full confidence,” he declared. “We will give you the knowledge and the tools you need to win, and we will make it clear that your job is to kick the enemy’s ass and come home safely.”
This commitment appeared to reference ongoing debates about America’s military engagements abroad and the administration’s approach to deploying forces only when objectives are clear and support is robust.
Vance also addressed the evolving nature of warfare in his remarks. While acknowledging that “the battlefield has changed in an incredible and profound way,” he expressed his belief that “the most important war-fighting technology is not artificial intelligence or anything on a computer. The most important war-fighting technology is a well-trained and well-armed United States Marine.”
This perspective aligns with broader Pentagon discussions about balancing technological advancements with traditional military capabilities in an era of increasing cyber and autonomous warfare.
The event highlighted Vance’s military credentials at a time when the administration has been emphasizing its commitment to strengthening America’s armed forces. As one of the few vice presidents with military service in recent decades, Vance’s Marine background provides him with unique authority when addressing defense and veterans’ issues.
As the evening concluded, the vice president raised his glass in a final toast, expressing gratitude for what the Corps had given him personally. “The Marine Corps has done more for me than I can possibly repay,” Vance said. “I will fight every single day to make sure that the next 250 years are just as damn proud as the first 250. Happy Birthday, Marines.”
The ballroom responded with thunderous applause as Marines raised their glasses in return, celebrating both their storied history and the vice president’s pledge of continued support.
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11 Comments
The Marine Corps’ 250th anniversary is a meaningful milestone. Vance’s message of combat readiness is an important reminder of their vital role in protecting American interests at home and abroad.
Vance’s military background gives him credibility when speaking about the needs of the Armed Forces. It’s good to see the administration prioritizing support for our service members.
Absolutely. Vance’s firsthand experience will help him advocate effectively for the resources and policies the Marines need to maintain their combat readiness.
Celebrating the Marine Corps’ 250th anniversary is an important moment to reflect on their crucial role in defending America’s interests. Vance’s message of combat readiness is timely given global security challenges.
Indeed, the Marine Corps has a long and storied history of answering the nation’s call. Vance’s leadership as a former Marine will be invaluable in ensuring their preparedness for future conflicts.
Vance’s emphasis on the Marine Corps’ combat readiness is timely, given the evolving global security landscape. His firsthand knowledge of their training and capabilities will be invaluable in policy discussions.
Vance’s personal connection to the Marine Corps lends authenticity to his message of combat readiness. As the first vice president with Marine experience, his leadership on military issues will be closely watched.
The Marine Corps’ 250th anniversary is a significant moment to honor their storied history and unwavering commitment to the nation. Vance’s remarks underscore the importance of maintaining a strong, battle-ready force.
Proud to see Vice President Vance honoring the Marines’ legacy of service and readiness. His personal connection as a former Marine will no doubt inspire troops and veterans alike.
It’s heartening to see the vice president, a former Marine himself, championing the Corps’ legacy of service and preparedness. Their contributions to national security deserve recognition and support.
Celebrating the Marine Corps’ 250th year is a chance to reflect on their vital role in protecting American interests. Vance’s message of readiness is a reassuring sign of the administration’s support for our service members.