ARLINGTON, Va. (AP) — President Donald Trump paid tribute to fallen service members during a Memorial Day ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery on Monday, honoring their legacy while also making political remarks.
Despite the solemn nature of the holiday, Trump began with an all-caps social media post that criticized his predecessor and denounced federal judges blocking his deportation initiatives as “monsters who want our country to go to hell.”
At the renowned cemetery, which is the final resting place for over 400,000 service members, Trump commemorated the sacrifices made by U.S. armed forces. He took a moment to acknowledge several Gold Star families, sharing stories of their fallen relatives.
“We just revere their incredible legacy,” Trump stated. “We salute them in their eternal and everlasting glory. And we continue our relentless pursuit of America’s destiny as we make our nation stronger, prouder, freer and greater than ever before.”
Trump highlighted the valor of service members, claiming, “Their valor gave us the freest, greatest and most noble republic ever to exist on the face of the earth. A republic that I am fixing after a long and hard four years.”
Among those honored was Navy Senior Chief Petty Officer Shannon Kent, who lost her life in Syria in 2019. Trump spoke of Kent’s remarkable service, noting she was one of the first women to fulfill her role and did so with excellence.
He emphasized the personal impact of her sacrifice, recalling that she left behind her husband and two young sons.
The ceremony also recognized Air Force Senior Master Sgt. Elroy Harworth, who died during the Vietnam War while his wife was pregnant. His son, now a 20-year Army veteran, received applause from the crowd.
Additionally, Trump shared the story of Army Cpl. Ryan McGhee, who joined the military following the September 11 attacks. McGhee’s mother was in attendance as Trump recounted her son’s commitment to service, noting he was killed in action at the young age of 21.
Before Trump took the stage, Vice President JD Vance addressed the audience, stressing the importance of being cautious in warfare. He urged attendees to demand political leaders view soldiers’ lives as their most valuable resource.
Later in his speech, Trump mentioned an upcoming “big, big celebration” for the U.S. marking its 250th birthday and lightheartedly expressed his indifference to missing a potential second presidential term.
“Because I wouldn’t be president for that,” he quipped, prompting laughter among the crowd. “In addition, we have the World Cup and we have the Olympics. Can you imagine? I missed that four years. And now look what I have, I have everything. Amazing the way things work out.”
Trump followed tradition by placing a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, pausing to salute as taps was played. He was accompanied by Vice President Vance and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth during this poignant moment,
Overall, the ceremony blended tributes to the selflessness of military service with elements of Trump’s characteristic political rhetoric, illustrating the complexity of honoring those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.
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