President Trump delivered a keynote address at West Point on Saturday morning, referring to the class of 2025 as “the first West Point alumni of America’s golden age.”
“This is a golden age. I promise, we will usher in a new era,” he declared to the New York graduates, pledging to “lead the Army to a great pinnacle.”
The nearly hour-long speech tackled various cultural debates, including the inclusion of trans athletes in women’s sports, and offered personal anecdotes and advice to individual cadets. Trump also took the opportunity to reflect on his administration’s achievements, particularly regarding defense initiatives.
One highlight of his speech was the promotion of the Golden Dome missile defense system. He claimed, “missiles can be intercepted, even if launched from the other side of the world or from space.”
He also emphasized what he calls a “trillion-dollar military budget,” linking it to a proposed 13% increase in defense spending. However, the White House clarified that some of this funding stems from a Republican settlement package.
Senate GOP aides previously informed sources that the White House’s actual proposal for discretionary defense spending in 2026 stood at $893 billion.
In his address, Trump painted an optimistic picture of his presidency, stating, “We have the hottest country in the world,” and suggested that actions are being taken to strengthen the military. He explicitly mentioned the Biden administration only once.
“The job of the U.S. military is not to host social programs or transform foreign cultures, but to promote democracy globally during times of conflict,” Trump asserted. “The mission is to eliminate threats, whenever and wherever they arise,” he added.
“The military is regaining its respect,” he continued. “Right now, you’re more respected than anywhere else in the world.”
Since returning to office, Trump’s administration has focused on reforming employment practices, particularly targeting the Department of Defense’s diversity, equity, and inclusion programs within military academies.
On Saturday, he encouraged alumni with advice to “do what you love” and to “always think big.”
“It takes courage to take risks and to be different,” he emphasized.
This was Trump’s second keynote address this month, and it marked his first military graduation speech of his second term. Earlier, he had spoken at the University of Alabama.
