In a show of appreciation, Vice President JD Vance paid a spirited visit to U.S. service members stationed at Ramstein Air Base on Thursday, capping off his international diplomatic tour with a down-to-earth gesture that resonated deeply with the troops.
During a brief refueling layover on the return leg of his weeklong trip to Italy and India, Vance, accompanied by his wife Usha and their children, spent time with dozens of airmen, soldiers, and Space Force guardians at one of America’s most critical overseas military hubs. The family toured a C-130 transport aircraft and mingled with service members in a festive hangar decked out with music, food, and American staples like hot dogs, popcorn — and of course, cold beer.
With a commemorative beer stein bearing the 86th Airlift Wing insignia in hand, presented by Brig. Gen. Adrienne Williams, Vance offered a heartfelt toast.
“To the airmen of this base and all of our troops serving overseas, God bless you guys,” Vance said. “We know that military service, especially at the level you guys do it, is an incredible sacrifice. We’re grateful to you guys. We’re thankful for what you do, and as a small token of appreciation, I’m going to serve you some beers.”
And he did just that. For nearly an hour, the vice president manned a beer tap, topping off drinks, shaking hands, and posing for photos — a gesture that struck a chord with those in attendance.
“He’s been in our shoes before, so he understands what it means to sacrifice for your country,” said Tech. Sgt. Michael Killebrew, a cyber technician with USAFE-AFAFRICA. “This was a really exciting experience for me and my troops.”
Vance, a Marine Corps veteran himself, appeared at ease as he engaged with service members, many of whom expressed appreciation for his approachability. Gen. James Hecker, commander of U.S. Air Forces in Europe and Air Forces Africa, greeted the Vance family on the flight line, highlighting the significance of the visit for both morale and visibility of leadership.
The event comes at a pivotal moment for U.S. foreign and defense policy, with Vance taking an increasingly prominent role in shaping the administration’s approach to military readiness and alliance-building. His stop at Ramstein — more than a formality — offered a tangible expression of support for the troops on the frontlines of global security.
