Vice President Vance Critiques Past Policies at Naval Academy Graduation

ANNAPOLIS, Md. — Vice President JD Vance criticized the foreign policy of previous administrations during his keynote address at the U.S. Naval Academy Graduation on Friday. Vance spoke to the Class of 2025 about their new roles as officers in the United States Navy and Marine Corps, emphasizing the significance of their commissions and the challenges they will face.

“You’re not just graduates of some random university… the moment you step off this stage, you will be officers,” Vance told the graduates. He highlighted the transition to a more focused military strategy under the Trump administration, vowing to avoid undefined missions and open-ended conflicts.

In his 25-minute speech, Vance specifically criticized the last decade’s foreign policies, pointing to investments improperly spent, including a $230 million floating pier in Gaza designed to deliver aid. He expressed a clear shift towards a military strategy that prioritizes American interests abroad.

“We ought to be cautious in deciding to throw a punch, but when we do, we do it decisively,” Vance stated, underscoring the importance of readiness among the midshipmen.

Vice Adm. Yvette Davids, the academy’s superintendent, also addressed the graduates. “Your sacred obligation to our nation is to be prepared… to preserve peace and decisively win when called upon,” she said.

The graduation ceremony marked a milestone for 751 men and 298 women of the Class of 2025, who donned their all-white dress uniforms and received commissions as ensigns and second lieutenants. Graduates shared their hopes and emotions as they prepared to embark on military careers.

“I can’t believe graduation is already here… it’s been a fast four years,” graduate Troy Boland from North Carolina said. Classmates Julia Horton and Ursula Wise noted their excitement for upcoming flight school while lamenting the end of their close-knit relationships.

As the ceremony concluded, Class President Herb Lacy led the graduates in three cheers, marking the end of their time as midshipmen. The air filled with tossed hats as families began to collect the hats lined with coins and messages.