WASHINGTON: President Donald Trump is scheduled to deliver a commencement address to the graduating class at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point on Saturday morning.
This marks Trump’s first military graduation speech since returning to office.
Historical Context
Trump last addressed West Point cadets in 2020, during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.
That event drew national attention due to health concerns, as cadets were required to return to campus despite ongoing risks.
In his 2020 speech, Trump paid tribute to historical military leaders such as Douglas MacArthur and Dwight D. Eisenhower and spoke about the importance of remembering those who fought in the Civil War.
Trump’s Recent Graduation Speeches
Earlier this month, Trump delivered a commencement address at the University of Alabama.
While he offered traditional advice to graduates, the speech also included political attacks on President Joe Biden, commentary on transgender athletes, and continued unfounded claims about the 2020 election.
Remarks by Vice President JD Vance
Vice President JD Vance also took part in military graduation ceremonies on Friday, addressing the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland.
In his remarks, Vance highlighted the Trump administration’s efforts to ensure that American troops are deployed with clear objectives, avoiding the “open-ended conflicts” of previous years.
