First Lady Melania Trump and Second Lady Usha Vance conducted their inaugural joint visit to military installations in North Carolina, expressing gratitude to service members and their families while commemorating the 250th anniversary of the Marine Corps.
On November 19, 2025, the first and second ladies traveled to Camp Lejeune and Marine Corps Air Station New River in Jacksonville, North Carolina. This marked their first public appearance together since their husbands assumed office, timed ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday to honor military families for their sacrifices. The visit aimed to strengthen ties with the armed forces community and highlight the administration’s support for those in uniform.
At Camp Lejeune, the largest Marine Corps base on the East Coast, Trump and Vance engaged with students at Lejeune High School. They participated in small group discussions focused on artificial intelligence and social media research, reflecting the White House’s emphasis on emerging technologies. The ladies interacted personally with children of service members, listening to their experiences and offering encouragement in a supportive environment that underscored the challenges of military life.
In the school’s gymnasium, Melania Trump delivered brief remarks, conveying President Trump’s best regards and emphasizing the nation’s appreciation for military families. She stated, ‘I want to thank you, all of you, because you are military families behind our nation’s defense, and thank you for your service.’ Her words resonated with attendees, acknowledging the emotional and practical support needed by those who serve and their loved ones.
The visit continued to DeLalio Elementary School, where Trump and Vance met with younger students and educators, fostering connections across age groups. Following this, they proceeded to the Mega Hangar at Marine Corps Air Station New River, where both were scheduled to address troops and their families. The gathering included hands-on activities and shared moments, reinforcing the message of gratitude and solidarity during the holiday season.
Usha Vance, whose husband Vice President JD Vance is a former Marine, spoke about the significance of military families as role models. She noted that ‘military families are truly a model for our country and for my own family,’ drawing on personal connections to the armed forces. This authenticity added depth to the outreach, resonating with attendees who value firsthand understanding of military service and its demands.
The event also honored the Marine Corps’ 250 years of service, with Trump’s remarks highlighting this milestone. Brig. Gen. Ralph J. Rizzo Jr. commented that the joint visit demonstrated unwavering support for those who serve, aligning with holiday preparations to boost morale. The recognition served as a reminder of the historical contributions and ongoing importance of the Marines to national security.
This joint initiative reflects the administration’s ongoing efforts to engage with military communities, potentially setting a precedent for future collaborations between the first and second ladies. It underscores the critical role of family support in military life and may influence policy discussions on veterans’ affairs, ensuring such visits continue to address the needs of service members and foster positive, long-term relationships.
