The First Lady recently joined Second Lady Usha Vance in a powerful visit with troops and military families, a moment steeped in gratitude and a sobering look toward the future of warfare. The occasion, held at Marine Corps Air Station New River, was a celebration of the Marine Corps’ remarkable 250 years of dedicated service.
However, the visit wasn’t solely a commemoration of the past. The First Lady delivered a stark assessment of the evolving landscape of conflict, emphasizing the transformative power of artificial intelligence. She warned that AI isn’t just another technological advancement, but a force poised to fundamentally redefine modern warfare and America’s defense strategies.
“Technology is changing the art of war,” she stated, her words carrying significant weight. She predicted that AI will alter war more profoundly than any innovation since the advent of nuclear weapons, a chilling comparison that underscored the gravity of the situation.
This focus on AI aligns with a broader initiative within the administration, a concerted effort to establish a unified national standard for its development and implementation. The goal is to ensure America remains at the forefront of this critical technological race.
The First Lady took time to personally acknowledge the dedication of those serving, welcoming Sergeant Blake Donoher and Corporal Daishamari Cannon to the stage. She highlighted the enduring legacy of the Marine Corps, a legacy built on courage, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment.
She explained that the most significant impact of AI will be the acceleration of conflict, a dramatic increase in speed and efficiency. While acknowledging the growing role of machines, she firmly asserted that the Marine Corps will always remain central to achieving mission success.
The shift is already underway, she noted, moving away from solely relying on human operators towards a model of human oversight. Autonomous helicopters, swarming drones, and advanced reconnaissance aircraft are no longer futuristic concepts, but present realities. Even fighter-less jets and autonomous bombers are on the horizon.
The event was warmly introduced by Second Lady Usha Vance, who conveyed a special “Happy birthday” message from Vice President JD Vance to the assembled Marines, recognizing the significance of the approaching Marine Corps birthday on November 10th.
Adding a touch of warmth to the serious discussion, the visit coincided with national Thanksgiving preparations. Both First and Second Ladies spent time with students at Camp Lejeune, witnessing firsthand the innovative AI projects developed as part of the Presidential Artificial Intelligence Challenge.
A particularly touching moment occurred in a first-grade classroom, where the First Lady embraced a shy student after the children read aloud and enthusiastically participated in a game of “Heads Up,” each wearing a notecard on their forehead. Her gentle encouragement, “Don’t be shy,” resonated deeply.
Concluding her remarks, the First Lady expressed profound gratitude to the service members and their families. She acknowledged their unwavering dedication and the sacrifices they make to ensure peace and security for all.
“To every Service Member — thank you for standing watch so others can celebrate in peace,” she said, her voice filled with sincerity. “And to every military spouse and child — thank you for your strength and love. You serve our country, too.”
She closed with a message of unity and gratitude, reminding everyone of the shared values that bind them together: a love of country, faith in one another, and immense pride in those who serve. It was a powerful message of thanks, delivered during a season of reflection and appreciation.
