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7h ago

Vance Marks Marines’ 250th at Camp Pendleton After Governor Closes I‑5 Over Live‑Fire Demonstration

State safety concerns over artillery led to an I‑5 closure, a decision disputed by Marine leaders along with the vice president’s office.

Marines listen to Vice President JD Vance speak at the 250th anniversary celebration of the United States Marine Corps at Camp Pendleton, California, on Saturday.
Vice President JD Vance speaks at the 250th anniversary celebration of the United States Marine Corps at Camp Pendleton, California, on Saturday.
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Overview

  • The Camp Pendleton event featured a large amphibious live‑fire display with fighter jets, helicopters, Navy vessels and towed howitzer fire that the Marine Corps described as the largest of its kind in the continental U.S. in a decade.
  • California Gov. Gavin Newsom ordered a section of Interstate 5 closed during the demonstration, citing extreme life‑safety risks and potential driver distraction from loud explosions.
  • Marine officials and Vice President J.D. Vance’s team rejected the premise that the exercise posed undue danger, saying events took place on approved ranges under established safety protocols.
  • Vance, the first Marine to serve as vice president, and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth used their remarks to emphasize unity of purpose over diversity framing and to address the government shutdown and troop pay.
  • Thousands of Marines, sailors, veterans and families attended the celebration, while organizers of the No Kings March coordinated protests in the region to coincide with the ceremony.