“This demonstration is more than a celebration – it’s proof that America’s expeditionary force-in-readiness remains capable, credible, and committed,” said Lt. Gen. Christian F. Wortman, commanding general of I Marine Expeditionary Force. “From ship to shore, today’s Marines and Sailors demonstrated the same grit and discipline that have defined our Corps for 250 years.”
The event featured integrated landings, live-fire artillery, aviation operations, and naval surface manoeuvres, supported by more than 35 aircraft, including CH-53E Super Stallions, MV-22B Ospreys, KC-130J Hercules, and F/A-18 and F-35 jets. Amphibious combat vehicles, High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems, Navy/Marine Expeditionary Ship Interdiction Systems, landing craft air cushion, and light armoured vehicles formed part of the combined assault.
“Embarked on a three-ship Amphibious Ready Group, the Marine Expeditionary Unit stands as the United States’ most versatile, flexible, and lethal global response force,” said Col. Caleb Hyatt, commanding officer of the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit. “During the 250th Amphibious Demonstration, the USS Boxer Amphibious Ready Group and 11th MEU seized the opportunity to hone and demonstrate our warfighting readiness, excellence in mission accomplishment, and unwavering teamwork, emerging as an even more lethal fighting force.”
Capt. Wayne Liebold, commodore of Amphibious Squadron 1, highlighted the enduring cooperation between the services. “Our Navy and Marine Corps team operates as one — integrated, adaptable, and ready to deliver effects from the sea whenever and wherever our nation calls,” Liebold said. “The Boxer ARG and 11th MEU exemplify what that partnership looks like in action.”
“This demonstration is vital to informing the American public, as well as our adversaries, about the evolving capabilities of modern amphibious warfare,” stated Col. Jonathon Frerichs, I Marine Expeditionary Force Future Operations Officer. “The Marine Corps’ 250-year legacy of sea-based operations remains foundational to our national defense. Events like this reinforce that legacy and demonstrate the Navy-Marine Corps team’s unwavering commitment to readiness and responsiveness in a dynamic security environment.”
For the Marines involved, the moment carried personal significance. “I’ll remember this for the rest of my life,” said Cpl. Grayson Hilderbrandt, an infantry Marine with Battalion Landing Team 3/5, 11th MEU. “Being part of this demonstration shows what today’s Marines are capable of — we’re faster, smarter, and more lethal than ever, and we get to prove that to the world.”
Thousands of Marines, Sailors, and families also gathered at Del Mar Beach for the Marine Corps 250th Birthday Beach Bash. “This anniversary is about honoring the Marines, Sailors, and families who make our legacy possible,” said Brig. Gen. Nick I. Brown, commanding general of Marine Corps Installations West. “Camp Pendleton has been the home of West Coast warfighting excellence for generations. Today, we celebrate that heritage and the strength of the community that continues to sustain our force.”
