VP JD Vance to visit Camp Pendleton for Marine Corps’ 250th Anniversary celebration

Vice President JD Vance is set to return to Marine Corps ranks in a historic homecoming as he leads the celebration of the U.S. Marine Corps’ 250th anniversary at Camp Pendleton.

The event, titled “America’s Marines 250: From Sea to Shore — A Review of Amphibious Strength,” will showcase the Marine Corps’ evolution as a global force in readiness and its commitment to amphibious warfare, according to a press release announcing the affair. It is set for Saturday, Oct. 18.

Vice President Vance, a former Marine himself, served with the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing as a combat correspondent and deployed to Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom. He is the first Marine to serve as Vice President of the United States.

More than 15,000 Marines, Navy sailors, veterans, and their families are expected to attend the celebration, which will feature a live amphibious assault demonstration, a review of amphibious strength, and keynote remarks from national military leaders and dignitaries.

Joining Vice President Vance on stage will be Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, Secretary of the Navy John C. Phelan and Marine Corps Commandant General Eric M. Smith.

Organized by Marines250, the event will pay tribute to the “the unity, discipline and fighting spirit” that have defined the Marine Corps since its founding in 1775 — from fighting on the beaches of Iwo Jima to recent operations across the globe.