President Donald Trump delivered the first service academy commencement speech of his second term on Saturday, congratulating the graduating West Point cadets while also sharply shifting into political commentary. Speaking at Michie Stadium, Trump praised the class of 2025 for joining what he called the “most elite and storied military academy in human history” and becoming officers in “the greatest and most powerful army the world has ever known.” He took credit for rebuilding the military during his first term, claiming it was done like never before.
Wearing his signature red “Make America Great Again” hat, Trump emphasized an “America First” approach for the armed forces, declaring the U.S. as “the hottest country in the world.” He stressed refocusing the military on its core mission: defeating America’s enemies and defending the nation’s flag. He also criticized recent military policies, saying the armed forces should not host drag shows or engage in cultural transformations, referencing Biden administration decisions that were controversial among Republicans.
Trump called this a defining moment for the Army, criticizing previous administrations for engaging in “nation-building crusades” abroad and introducing divisive ideas like transgender policies and “critical race theory” into military training. He accused past leaders of focusing on social and political causes while neglecting border security and military strength.
Throughout his remarks, Trump’s tone often resembled a political rally speech, praising his 2024 election victory and claiming it gave him a strong mandate to lead. Despite the political focus, he also took time to highlight individual cadet achievements, calling Chris Verdugo to the stage for completing a grueling 18.5-mile march in cold conditions, recognizing the men’s lacrosse team for their top national ranking, and praising star quarterback Bryson Daily’s toughness, using Daily as an example in his argument against transgender women competing in women’s sports.
In keeping with tradition, Trump pardoned several cadets who had faced disciplinary actions. He encouraged graduates to pursue what they love, think boldly, work hard, uphold their values, maintain faith in America, and be willing to take risks. “This is a time of incredible change, and we do not need an officer corps of careerists and yes men,” he said. “We need patriots with guts and vision and backbone.”
Outside the ceremony, about thirty protesters gathered, waving small American flags. Some signs urged support for veterans and called to “Stop the Cuts,” while others displayed messages like “Go Army Beat Fascism.”
The day before, Vice President JD Vance addressed the Naval Academy’s graduating class in Annapolis, highlighting Trump’s efforts to give soldiers clear missions instead of the vague and endless conflicts of past administrations.
Trump previously gave the West Point commencement address in 2020 during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, a time when cadets had to travel extensively amid health risks.