Story perspectives

Live-Fire Demo Celebrates Marines’ 250th, Draws Criticism

10/20/2025

Summary

Story summary

On October 19, 2025, a live-fire demonstration at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton marked the Marine Corps’ 250th anniversary.
The event involved firing 155mm artillery shells over Interstate 5 and closed a 17-mile freeway stretch.
The California Highway Patrol said shrapnel from a premature detonation struck a patrol vehicle and a motorcycle; no injuries occurred.
Governor Gavin Newsom criticized the decision as reckless, while officials blamed him for the disruption.

History

Historical Context

The U.S. Marine Corps celebrated its 200th anniversary in 1975 with public events funded by approximately $1 million from the Pentagon, highlighting its historical importance. This tradition continued with a live-fire demonstration at Camp Pendleton for the 250th anniversary in 2026, which drew criticism from Governor Gavin Newsom, underscoring ongoing concerns about military operations and civilian safety.

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Story summary

On October 19, 2025, a live-fire demonstration at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton marked the Marine Corps’ 250th anniversary.
The event involved firing 155mm artillery shells over Interstate 5 and closed a 17-mile freeway stretch.
The California Highway Patrol said shrapnel from a premature detonation struck a patrol vehicle and a motorcycle; no injuries occurred.
Governor Gavin Newsom criticized the decision as reckless, while officials blamed him for the disruption.

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