A rare pairing unfolded Wednesday in North Carolina as First Lady Melania Trump and Second Lady Usha Vance joined forces to express gratitude to the families who uphold the nation’s defense. Their visit, timed just before the holidays, aimed to personally acknowledge the sacrifices made by those serving in the military and their loved ones.
Camp Lejeune, the sprawling Marine Corps base on the East Coast, and nearby Marine Corps Air Station New River were the focal points of their day. The two women moved among the personnel stationed there, offering direct thanks for their commitment and unwavering service.
The visit extended beyond the base itself, reaching into the community at Lejeune High School. There, they engaged with students, sparking conversations about the rapidly evolving landscape of artificial intelligence and the complexities of navigating social media in the modern world.
In the school gymnasium, the First Lady addressed the assembled families, her words resonating with heartfelt appreciation. She conveyed a message of gratitude, emphasizing the vital role military families play in safeguarding the nation, and shared greetings from her husband, the President.
“We are both thinking of you,” she stated, “and you’re in our thoughts and prayers for holidays, every day, but especially for the holidays.” It was a sentiment designed to offer comfort and recognition during a time often marked by separation and sacrifice.
The tour continued with a stop at DeLalio Elementary School, followed by a gathering at the Mega Hangar at Marine Corps Air Station New River. There, both ladies were scheduled to address troops and their families, extending their message of support and acknowledging their dedication.
The planned remarks were to be a tribute to the Marine Corps’ remarkable 250 years of service, a celebration of the strength of military families, and a spotlight on the First Lady’s growing interest in the potential – and challenges – of emerging technologies like artificial intelligence.
