On Thursday, the celebrations marking the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States Navy and Marine Corps kicked off in grand fashion. Several warships sailed along the Delaware River, with a fleet parade and military aircraft flying overhead, creating a spectacular scene that drew a large crowd of spectators along the banks, paying tribute to the military.
The event saw a significant turnout of spectators on both sides of the Delaware River to witness the fleet parade. Multiple ships sailed into the waters of Philadelphia and Camden County, New Jersey, with sailors lining up neatly on board.
The parade included several vessels such as the USS Lassen missile destroyer, the USS Billings Freedom-class littoral combat ship, the USS Cooperstown Freedom-class littoral combat ship, and the USS Arlington amphibious landing ship.
During a speech by U.S. Navy Vice Admiral John Gumbleton by the river, he emphasized that the fleet parade served as a fitting opening to the event, aiming to pay tribute to the Navy’s contributions over the past few centuries in maintaining freedom and showcasing global power.
Gumbleton stated, “There is nothing that exemplifies American pride, American strength, and naval superiority more than what you are about to witness.”
He continued, “Today, we continue this proud tradition of cruising international waters, ensuring the safety of trade routes, and being ready to respond to various crises whenever needed.”
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro also attended the event, praising the spirit of dedication shown by the Navy and Marine Corps in protecting the nation and freedom.
“I am extremely proud that the origins of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps trace back to our city here in Pennsylvania, founded to safeguard the freedom and well-being of our nation and people,” the governor remarked.
He added, “Over the past 250 years, the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps have steadfastly defended this hard-earned freedom and democracy, not only domestically but also worldwide.”
Marine Corps Brigadier General Bobbi Shea highlighted that the fleet parade, especially the appearance of the amphibious warships, demonstrated the strength of the U.S. Navy and its preparedness to handle various missions.
Shea pointed out, “The amphibious warships, along with the Marine Corps units aboard, provide the nation with rapidly deployable and maneuverable maritime combat forces, possessing credible deterrent capabilities and the ability to respond quickly within hours upon receiving a mission.”
Organizers anticipate that over the next few days, several thousand people will participate in the fleet parade and other commemorative events, including gatherings of retired military personnel, downtown street parades, and concerts featuring singer Patti LaBelle, the Navy Band, and the Marine Corps Drum and Bugle Corps.
The event’s official website indicated that the week-long celebration will encompass museum exhibitions and tours of historic and modern warships. The organizers noted that related celebrations will also take place at military bases worldwide.