Melania Trump Highlights Marine Corps Legacy and AI in Warfare

On November 8, 2025, First Lady Melania Trump and Second Lady Usha Vance visited military families and troops at Camp Lejeune and Marine Corps Air Station New River in North Carolina. This marked their first joint appearance and coincided with the celebration of the Marine Corps’ 250th anniversary. During the visit, the First Lady praised the long-standing service of the Marine Corps while discussing the transformative role of artificial intelligence in modern warfare.

AI’s Role in Defense Strategy

In her remarks, Mrs. Trump emphasized the increasing integration of AI within the military, declaring it a cornerstone of the Trump administration’s defense strategy. “Technology is changing the art of war,” she stated. “Predictably, AI will alter war more profoundly than any technology since nuclear weapons.” This statement aligns with the administration’s ongoing focus on AI, which has been a critical aspect of the President’s broader initiative titled “Winning the AI Race: America’s AI Action Plan,” released in July 2025.

During the event, the First Lady acknowledged the legacy of the Marine Corps by welcoming two Marines on stage: Sergeant Blake Donoher and Corporal Daishamari Cannon. “The most significant change will be speed,” she noted, highlighting how AI is set to impact military operations. “Artificial intelligence will take center stage in the theater of war… but, of course, it is the Marine who will always play the most critical role in realizing mission success.”

Mrs. Trump further elaborated that the military’s evolution towards AI technologies is significant, stating, “We are moving from human operators to human overseers – fast.” She pointed out the presence of autonomous helicopters, drones, and reconnaissance aircraft, indicating that this shift is already underway. She mentioned that “fighter-less jets and autonomous bombers are on the way,” showcasing the rapid advancements in military technology.

Engagement with Military Families

The visit also included interactions with military-connected students, who showcased their projects as part of the Presidential Artificial Intelligence Challenge. This initiative highlights the administration’s commitment to fostering innovation among young people. In a heartwarming moment, the First Lady comforted a shy student during a classroom visit, encouraging him to engage with her. This interaction exemplified her effort to connect with military families on a personal level.

In concluding her remarks, Mrs. Trump expressed her gratitude to service members and their families, saying, “To every Service Member — thank you for standing watch so others can celebrate in peace. And to every military spouse and child — thank you for your strength and love. You serve our country, too.”

As the nation prepares for the Thanksgiving holiday, her visit served as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by military families. “As we give thanks this season, let us remember what unites us — our shared love of country, our faith in one another, and our pride in those who serve,” she concluded.

With this visit, First Lady Melania Trump and Second Lady Usha Vance underscored their commitment to supporting military families while addressing the critical role of technology in the future of defense.