Protesters are set to gather outside Camp Pendleton this weekend as Vice President J.D. Vance and Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth attend the U.S. Marine Corps 250th anniversary celebration. The event, which includes live-fire exercises, aims to honor the long-standing traditions and accomplishments of the Marine Corps.
Located in California, Camp Pendleton is one of the largest Marine Corps bases in the United States. On Friday afternoon, the entrance to the base was calm, but this weekend’s events are expected to draw attention both for the celebration and the protest, known as the No Kings March. This demonstration previously attracted around 60,000 people to San Diego’s waterfront in June, as part of a nationwide movement against certain policies of former President Donald Trump.
Protest Organizer’s Message
The No Kings March, organized by Dane Culbreath, aims to express dissent against the military’s display of power. “Democracy is not a spectator sport. It’s something we have to engage in,” Culbreath stated. He emphasized that the demonstration is not only about protesting the visiting dignitaries but also about advocating for genuine governmental accountability. “We do not like the show of force and show of military strength. It’s really just a show when what we need from them is actual government,” he added.
Culbreath anticipates a larger turnout compared to previous protests, indicating a growing momentum behind their cause. “This protest is just one step in a movement for change, and personally, I am building something. I’m building a permanent home for neighbor-to-neighbor democracy,” he remarked.
Marine Corps Anniversary Celebrations
In conjunction with the anniversary, the Marines are scheduled to conduct demonstrations by air, land, and sea, showcasing their capabilities and honoring their history. The event aims to celebrate 250 years of service and excellence in the Marine Corps.
As the protest coincides with the anniversary celebrations, the Marine Corps has not yet responded to inquiries regarding the implications of the No Kings March on their planned activities. Interstate 5 will remain open during the live-fire exercise, which is expected to attract significant attention from both supporters and critics of the military presence.
The juxtaposition of the anniversary celebrations with the planned protest highlights a complex landscape of national sentiment regarding military and governmental actions. Both events represent the ongoing dialogue surrounding democracy and civic engagement in the United States.
