Artillery Fire at Vance’s Marine Corps Celebration Sparks Friction With Newsom

The California governor closed portions of Interstate 5 during the event, claiming the artillery fire was a risk to motorists.

Vice President JD Vance speaks at the United States Marine Corps 250th birthday celebration at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton in Oceanside, Calif., on Oct. 18, 2025. Mario Tama/Getty Images

Vice President JD Vance celebrated the Marine Corps’ 250th anniversary at Camp Pendleton, California, on Oct. 18 in a ceremony that included firing live artillery shells over a major highway and prompted a showdown with the state government.

“I just wanted to say from the bottom of my heart, from one Marine to another, from the Vice President of the United States to the whole Marine Corps, thank you for your service,” Vance said. “We are proud of you and proud of your service.”