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President Donald J. Trump returned to Fort Bragg on Tuesday in a powerful show of patriotism and military pride, honoring the U.S. Army’s 250th anniversary with a message that resonated deeply with service members, veterans, and American families alike.
Under clear Carolina skies, Trump stood before thousands of troops and civilians at the world’s largest military installation, where the 82nd Airborne Division and U.S. Army Special Operations Command call home.
His presence marked his first visit to Fort Bragg since being re-elected president — and it was anything but ceremonial.
Watch his full event here. Trump's speech starts @ 1:42:00:
“You Are the First Ones Out the Door”
With Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Army Secretary Dan Driscoll flanking the stage, Trump praised America’s soldiers as “the tip of the spear” — heroes ready to answer the call of duty at a moment’s notice.
“When the president calls 9-1-1, it’s Fort Bragg that picks up the phone,” Driscoll said in his opening remarks, calling Trump “the greatest recruiter in our Army’s history.”
The crowd erupted as Trump took the stage, speaking directly to the men and women in uniform and reaffirming his commitment to a strong, respected military. He thanked the troops for their unmatched courage and sacrifice — not just in defending freedom abroad, but in restoring it here at home.
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Military Might and Community Spirit
Before delivering his remarks, President Trump observed a dramatic live demonstration of U.S. military capabilities, including a missile strike, a helicopter assault, and a precision building raid — a testament to the elite readiness of America’s armed forces.
The event had the feel of a patriotic fair, complete with food trucks, military gear displays, bounce houses, and even “robo-dog” demonstrations. Trump hats and flags were proudly worn and waved throughout the crowd, which included young families, new recruits, and battle-hardened veterans.
Toshanna Smith, a former soldier who was medically retired, brought her 3-year-old daughter, Scarlett, who eagerly awaited a glimpse of the president. “We’re gonna go see Trump,” she said, donning a red-white-and-blue dress and a camo cap.
Restoring the Name — and the Spirit — of Fort Bragg
Trump’s appearance at Fort Bragg also served as a symbolic victory in the fight against woke politics infiltrating the military. The base, stripped of its historic name under the Biden administration and temporarily renamed Fort Liberty, was officially restored to its original name in February — but this time in honor of Pfc. Roland L. Bragg, a World War II hero who earned the Silver Star and Purple Heart at the Battle of the Bulge.
“Fort Bragg isn’t just a name — it’s a legacy,” Trump said. “And we don’t erase our legacy in this country. We honor it.”
A Commander-in-Chief Who Backs the Troops — and Uses Them
The visit came on the heels of a major national security move. In a bold and controversial decision, President Trump federalized state National Guard units — without the consent of California Governor Gavin Newsom — and deployed active-duty Marines to Los Angeles to restore law and order amid escalating anti-ICE protests and immigration unrest.
“We’re not going to let anarchists and radicals burn our cities while politicians look the other way,” Trump said over the weekend. “We’re gonna have troops everywhere.”
While California’s far-left leadership fumed and filed lawsuits, Trump’s decisive action sent a clear message: America’s military exists not just to defend foreign borders, but to preserve domestic peace and security when politicians fail to do so.
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Patriotism Reignited
Tuesday’s ceremony was more than a tribute — it was a reminder of what America can be when we come together around service, sacrifice, and strength. As families cheered, troops stood at attention, and patriotic songs filled the air, one thing was clear: under President Trump, the military is once again front and center in the fight to restore American greatness.
This weekend, Trump will continue the celebration with a massive military parade in Washington, D.C., commemorating the Army’s founding — and his own 79th birthday — in what’s expected to be one of the most powerful displays of military pride in American history.
From Fayetteville to Los Angeles to the steps of the Capitol, President Trump is proving once again that he’s not just the Commander-in-Chief — he’s the defender of America’s soul.
