The ballroom buzzed with anticipation as Vice President JD Vance stepped onto the stage at the Marine Corps’ 250th Birthday Ball in Washington, D.C. His greeting, a booming “How we doing, Marines?” instantly ignited a wave of cheers from the sea of dress blues.
Vance’s presence marked the beginning of Veterans Day weekend, a clear signal of the administration’s commitment to honoring military service and strength. He acknowledged the historic milestone, drawing enthusiastic applause with a simple statement: “It’s so great to be here to celebrate 250 years of the United States Marine Corps.”
A wave of emotion washed over the room when Vance revealed a personal connection, earning a standing ovation. He proudly declared himself “the very first vice president of the United States to have been a United States Marine,” a statement resonating deeply with those present.
He transported the audience back to his own beginnings, recalling his arrival as a 19-year-old recruit on the iconic yellow footprints of Parris Island, South Carolina. The Marine Corps, he asserted, had been a constant force for integrity in his life, shaping his character and forging enduring bonds.
Vance spoke with heartfelt gratitude, acknowledging the profound impact of his service. “The Marine Corps has done more for me than I can possibly repay,” he confessed, promising unwavering support for the Corps throughout his time as Vice President.
A moment of levity broke the solemnity as Vance recounted a playful exchange with a 99-year-old Iwo Jima veteran earlier that evening. The veteran had good-naturedly teased him about his beard, a humbling experience for the Vice President himself.
“That, my friends, is what the Marine Corps does — it keeps us honest,” Vance chuckled, reinforcing the idea of a unique, unyielding culture that transcends rank and time. It was a testament to the Corps’ ability to cut through pretense.
His address wasn’t limited to personal reflection; Vance honored Marines across generations, from recent recruits to the heroes of Iwo Jima. He expressed immense pride in every Marine, vowing to continue America’s legacy of victory for the next 250 years.
Vance then addressed a critical concern: ensuring troops are sent into conflict with clear objectives and unwavering support. He pledged that future deployments would be undertaken with “full confidence,” providing soldiers with the resources and clarity needed to succeed and return home safely.
Acknowledging the evolving nature of warfare, Vance emphasized that technology, while important, wasn’t the ultimate advantage. He firmly believed that “the most important war-fighting technology is not artificial intelligence… it is a well-trained and well-armed United States Marine.”
As the evening culminated in a final toast, Vance paused, reflecting on the debt he owed to the Corps. He reiterated his gratitude, acknowledging the immeasurable impact the Marines had on his life.
Raising his glass, he delivered a powerful closing statement: “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 erupted in thunderous applause, a sea of glasses raised in salute.
