Millions of Americans protested President Donald Trump’s actions earlier this year, and organizers of the “No Kings” rallies are planning a second round of demonstrations on Saturday, Oct. 18. Organizers have scheduled dozens of California protests across major Southern California areas including Beverly Hills, Hollywood, Downtown Los Angeles, Pico Robertson, Venice, and Santa Monica. These protests aim to voice opposition to the administration’s policies, especially amid the ongoing government shutdown.
California Protests and Misleading Reports
Amid these preparations, media reports suggested that President Trump might authorize missile launches from Navy warships into California. The online outlet MediaTouch, citing unnamed sources, claimed that parts of Interstate 5 in Oceanside might close for a “vanity parade” involving live missile firing at Camp Pendleton. These claims confused and concerned local residents and commuters and raised questions about public safety and potential disruptions to California protests.
The Los Angeles Times, citing unconfirmed sources from California Governor Gavin Newsom’s office, reported that authorities might close parts of I-5 on Friday and Saturday for an event marking the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Marine Corps. This event includes live artillery demonstrations but is unrelated to the planned California protests in Oceanside.
U.S. Military Clarifies Events During California Protests
The U.S. Marine Corps addressed these reports directly on X (formerly Twitter), clarifying that no public highways or transportation routes will be closed during the celebrations. According to the military’s statement, the I Marine Expeditionary Force will host a “live-fire” Amphibious Capabilities Demonstration at Red Beach, Camp Pendleton, on Oct. 18. This event is part of celebrations for the Marine Corps’ 250th birthday and America’s Semiquincentennial.
Officials emphasized that all training activities will occur on approved ranges and follow strict safety protocols. The Marine Corps plans the live-fire demonstration to showcase its amphibious capabilities and highlight the evolution of U.S. military readiness and strength. The demonstration will not target civilian areas or public roads, ensuring the safety of people attending California protests.
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The Marine Corps also confirmed that marines, sailors, veterans, and their families will gather at Del Mar Beach for a Beach Bash after the demonstration. This family-friendly event will feature food, music, and various activities. The military reassured the public that it will conduct the live-fire exercises with safety as the highest priority and within controlled environments, allowing California protests to continue without disruption.
Details of the Marine Corps 250th Anniversary Celebration
The event, officially titled “America’s Marines 250: From Sea to Shore — A Review of Amphibious Strength,” will bring together more than 15,000 participants, including Marines, Navy sailors, veterans, and their families. The celebration will feature live demonstrations of amphibious assault techniques, highlighting the Corps’ historical and modern capabilities.
Key figures attending the event include Vice President Vance, who is a former Marine and combat correspondent, Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, Secretary of the Navy John C. Phelan, and Marine Corps Commandant General Eric M. Smith. The event aims to demonstrate the Marine Corps’ readiness and global operational strength through live exercises and formal reviews of amphibious force capabilities.
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The military reiterated that it will not target or affect any civilian areas during the demonstrations. Officials will not close roads for the planned exercises, and they strictly follow safety protocols to ensure no risk to the public. The Marine Corps conducts the live-fire demonstration entirely within designated military ranges and briefs all participants on safety procedures.
This clarification comes as authorities prepare for concurrent California protests, ensuring that the public can safely attend rallies without confusion over military activities. While media reports suggested dramatic missile launches and highway closures, official statements confirm that the events are celebratory and educational, highlighting U.S. military traditions rather than engaging in offensive operations on public land.