US Navy and Marine Corps Mark 250th Anniversary With Ship Parade

‘There’s no greater projection of American pride, American power, and naval dominance quite like what you’re about to see,’ Vice Admiral John Gumbleton said.

The USS Lassen passes the viewing stand during the 250th anniversary of the founding of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps, along the Delaware River in Philadelphia on Oct. 9, 2025. Matt Rourke/AP Photo

The celebration of the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps began on Oct. 9 with a parade of ships and a military flyover along the Delaware River.

Crowds lined the riverbanks to watch as Navy ships made their way on the Delaware River, arriving in Philadelphia and Camden County, New Jersey. Among the ships that took part were the USS Lassen, the USS Billings, the USS Cooperstown, and the USS Arlington.

Speaking at the Delaware River waterfront, Vice Admiral John Gumbleton said the parade was “a fitting kickoff” to honor the Navy’s centuries-long role in “securing freedom and projecting power worldwide.”

“There’s no greater projection of American pride, American power, and naval dominance quite like what you’re about to see,” Gumbleton said.

“Today, we continue this proud legacy by patrolling international waters, ensuring safe trade routes, and responding to crises whenever needed,” he added.

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, who also attended, praised the Navy and Marine Corps for their unwavering service in protecting the country and its freedoms.

“I’m very proud of the fact that here in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, in this city, that this is where America’s Navy and Marine Corps began, established to secure the blessings of liberty for our new nation and our people.

“And over the last 250 years, the U.S. Navy and U.S. Marines, well, they have defended that hard-won freedom and democracy here at home and around the world,” the governor said.

The USS Billings passes the viewing stand during the ship parade along the Delaware River in Philadelphia on Oct. 9, 2025. Matt Rourke/AP Photo

Spectators look on as U.S. Navy ships pass the viewing stand during the 250th anniversary of the founding of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps, along the Delaware River in Philadelphia on Oct. 9, 2025. Matt Rourke/AP Photo

Marines Corps Lt. Gen. Bobbi Shea said the ship parade, particularly the amphibious warships, demonstrated the U.S. Navy’s strength and readiness to respond to any mission.

“Amphibious warships and the Marines they carry provide our nation forward-deployed, flexible sea-based force that provides credible deterrence and can respond within hours of receipt of mission,” Shea said.

Thousands of people were expected to attend the parade and other anniversary-linked events over the next few days, including a reunion of veterans, a downtown street parade, and a concert featuring singer Patti LaBelle, the Navy band, and the Marine Corps Drum and Bugle Corps.

The weeklong celebration will also feature special museum exhibits and tours of modern and historic ships, according to the event website. Event organizers said celebrations were expected to take place on military bases around the world following the anniversary.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.