First Lady Melania Trump turned heads this weekend after enthusiastically opening her speech with a Navy battle cry during the U.S. Navy’s 250th Anniversary Celebration in Norfolk, Virginia — leaving many Americans wondering what she said.
The event, held Saturday, October 5, brought together about 10,000 sailors in full dress whites at Naval Station Norfolk. Despite the ongoing government shutdown, President Donald Trump and the First Lady appeared in person to honor the milestone — and the ceremony quickly took on the energy of a patriotic rally.
President Trump, 79, praised America’s military while calling out Democrats for the budget stalemate. “Despite the current Democrat-induced shutdown, we’ll make sure our service members get every last penny,” Trump told the cheering crowd. Moments later, chants of “U-S-A! U-S-A!” filled the air as the President laughed and admitted, “Let’s face it — this feels like a rally.” He capped off his remarks with his familiar dance to “Y.M.C.A.” — a signature moment that drew roaring applause.
Then, Melania Trump stepped up to the podium — and immediately captured everyone’s attention.
The First Lady began her remarks by shouting, “Hooyah, Navy!” prompting an enthusiastic “Hooyah!” in response from the crowd of sailors. But while the Navy members knew exactly what it meant, many watching online were left scratching their heads.
Clips of the moment quickly spread across social media, sparking confusion and amusement. “What is ‘Hooyah’? Anyone?” one user asked on X, formerly Twitter. Another joked, “I did NOT have Melania yelling ‘Hooyah’ on my 2025 bingo card — but I’m here for it!”
Others applauded her energy and patriotism. “How Melania enjoys this moment — I love it,” one fan wrote. “That’s just some good, all-American fun. Go Navy!” another added.
After her spirited greeting, the First Lady continued with heartfelt words of appreciation. “It is an honor to be with you to celebrate 250 years since the United States Navy was officially established,” she said. “Generations of sailors have kept America free through their courage and service. Your strength, bravery, and sacrifice inspire us all.”
So what does “Hooyah” actually mean?
According to Military Times, “Hooyah” is the traditional battle cry of the U.S. Navy — especially among elite units like the SEALs. It’s a shout of motivation, unity, and respect, often used during physically demanding drills or missions. The term dates back to the Navy’s Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL training, where instructors would yell “Hooyah!” to push recruits through tough exercises. Recruits would respond in kind, turning the word into a symbol of determination and teamwork.
The Cambridge Dictionary defines “Hooyah” as an expression of approval, agreement, or encouragement — similar to “Oorah” for Marines or “Hooah” for the Army.
Over the years, the phrase has come to embody the Navy’s fighting spirit and camaraderie — and it seems Melania Trump wanted to channel that same energy as she honored the service members who defend America’s freedom.
Her enthusiastic “Hooyah, Navy!” wasn’t just a greeting — it was a salute to the men and women who keep the seas safe.
Hooyah, indeed.
