In a significant celebration of the Marine Corps’ 250th anniversary, Vice President JD Vance is set to visit Camp Pendleton in Southern California on Saturday, October 18. Vance, who made history as the first Marine to hold the vice presidency, will join notable military leaders including Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, Secretary of the Navy John C. Phelan, and Commandant of the Marine Corps Gen. Eric M. Smith for an event entitled “America’s Marines 250: From Sea to Shore – A Review of Amphibious Strength.” This event includes a beach landing demonstration by amphibious vehicles and aircraft.
The visit occurs against the backdrop of a federal government shutdown, which has raised concerns among military families regarding the continuity of their pay. However, House Speaker Mike Johnson reassured that military personnel would still receive their paychecks due on October 15, as the Pentagon has identified approximately $8 billion in unused funding that can be reallocated.
Vance’s appearance is part of a yearlong celebration initiated by Gen. Smith, which has seen various public events across the nation. This ongoing commemoration underscores the importance of the Marine Corps’ legacy and operational readiness. While rehearsals for Saturday’s demonstration are ongoing, the Camp Pendleton event marks one of the key highlights leading to the grand finale at the Commandant’s Birthday Ball in Washington, D.C., set for November.
Camp Pendleton has served as a premier training facility for Marine forces since its inception in the early 1940s. Its strategic location spans 125,000 acres with 17.5 miles of shoreline, ideal for amphibious assault training. Commanders have emphasized the base’s unique advantages for preparing for potential conflicts in the Indo-Pacific region, with 85% of the Defense Department’s airspace and a significant percentage of the Marine Corps’ live-fire training ranges located nearby.
Brig. Gen. Nick Brown, who commands Marine Corps Installations West, highlighted Camp Pendleton’s pivotal role in training the I Marine Expeditionary Force, stating it is essential for maintaining operational readiness worldwide. His remarks reinforce the Marines’ commitment to ensuring that their forces are equipped for any mission that may arise.
The event is anticipated to evoke a strong sense of community and gratitude, with local leaders such as San Clemente Mayor Steve Knoblock expressing support for the base and its integral role in preserving national freedoms. This gathering not only honors the Marines’ storied history but also showcases their readiness to respond to modern challenges.