Vice President J.D. Vance, a proud Marine Corps veteran, and Second Lady Usha Vance, a San Diego native, attended a live-fire amphibious assault demonstration at Camp Pendleton to mark the U.S. Marine Corps’ 250th anniversary.

The high-intensity event featured Marines storming Red Beach with Navy SEAL parachute insertions, Landing Craft Air Cushion (LCAC) vehicles roaring ashore, and Howitzer fire booming over Interstate 5, showcasing the strength of integrated Marine-Navy operations.

Vance, joined by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, Navy Secretary John Phelan, and Commandant Gen. Eric M. Smith, later addressed the troops. He reflected on his four years of Marine service, including an Iraq deployment, crediting that experience for shaping the discipline and grit described in his bestselling memoir, Hillbilly Elegy.

The four-hour I-5 closure required for the demonstration drew criticism from California Gov. Gavin Newsom, who called the event a “reckless” disruption that endangered public safety. In response, Vance’s office dismissed the accusation as “fake news for political gain,” emphasizing that the military exercise met all safety protocols and was coordinated with local authorities.

The demonstration served not only as a show of military capability but also as a celebration of Marine Corps heritage, honoring 250 years of service, sacrifice, and Semper Fi spirit.