During a speech honoring the U.S. Navy's 250th anniversary, President Donald Trump committed to providing what he described as the largest pay increase in American military history. The event, held along a historic waterfront, drew thousands of sailors, veterans, and their families. Trump reassured the military community that despite the ongoing government shutdown, caused by a stalemate in Congress largely attributed to the Democrats, their compensation would not be compromised.
"Despite the current Democrat-induced shutdown, we will get our service members every last penny. Don't worry about it. It's coming. And even more because I'm supporting the across-the-board pay raises for every sailor and service member of the United States Armed Forces." - President Trump
"As your Commander-in-Chief, I will always stand for you. I promise you that," Trump vowed, emphasizing the government's obligation to ensure that service members receive "every last penny" of their due pay. The president's assurance came amid a budgetary deadlock that has seen non-essential government services grind to a halt.
Trump's address underscored the administration's commitment to military might, with promises to continue expanding the Navy and enhancing the overall capabilities of the Armed Forces. He outlined his administration’s defense strategy, spotlighting over $1 trillion in military spending focused on modernizing weaponry, bolstering personnel support, and growing the shipbuilding programs. "We're going to be building lots of ships and doing a lot of things that you haven't seen happen for 35 years," he declared.
The president took the opportunity to laud the prowess of the U.S. Navy, describing it as the "greatest fighting force ever to roam the seas." He paid tribute to the various components of the Navy, from surface warriors to naval aviators, and from the stealthy submarine fleet to the revered Navy SEALs. Trump also did not miss the chance to honor the Marine Corps, inseparable from Navy history, by celebrating their long-standing camaraderie in conflict.
The event was not just about speeches, as it featured ceremonial honors for veterans and active-duty personnel, musical performances by Navy bands, and historical exhibits. These festivities served as a backdrop to Trump's central message of undying loyalty to the Armed Forces, concluding with a rallying cry: "The U.S. Navy always stands for America, and as your Commander-in-Chief, I will always stand for you."
This anniversary event highlighted Trump's firm stance on defense priorities—larger budgets, modernized fleets, and increased pay for troops—while framing the military as an essential pillar of American identity and security.
