Special Poll
Veterans Express Outrage: Reports emerged of an altercation between a member of Donald Trump’s entourage and a top official at Arlington National Cemetery, leaving many veterans alarmed. Retired Army General Paul Eaton labeled the incident as “repugnant.”
Incident Details: The conflict reportedly took place when a member of Trump’s team forcibly recorded video in Section 60 of the cemetery, where photography is strictly prohibited. Section 60 is a sacred area where recently fallen U.S. service members are laid to rest.
Controversial Video: The footage later appeared in a Trump campaign TikTok video, where he criticized President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris. This use of Arlington’s hallowed grounds for political purposes sparked intense backlash.
Veterans React: Fred Wellman, a 22-year Army combat veteran, voiced the anger shared by many, stating, “Donald Trump has no right to use our most hallowed ground for his political aims.”
Background of the Incident: The altercation followed a wreath-laying ceremony by Trump at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, commemorating the 13 Americans killed in a Kabul airport bombing during the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan.
Confrontation at Section 60: After the ceremony, Trump’s team, along with family members of a fallen soldier, attempted to film at a gravesite in Section 60. The cemetery’s public affairs director intervened, attempting to stop the recording, as it violated federal regulations.
Arlington’s Sacred Grounds: Nearly 400,000 individuals are buried at Arlington, maintained by the U.S. Army. Former Army Undersecretary and Pennsylvania Rep. Patrick Murphy condemned the use of the cemetery for political material, calling it a “new low.”
Demand for Apology: Wellman insisted that Trump’s team should apologize for exploiting the cemetery for political gain, rather than attacking the official who was upholding federal law.
Campaign’s Defense: Trump’s spokesman claimed the group had permission to film, while also disparaging the cemetery official by suggesting a mental health issue. Arlington National Cemetery confirmed an incident took place, but no charges were filed.
Backlash Grows: Veterans and veterans’ groups were further outraged by the campaign’s attack on the official’s mental health. Maj. Gen. (Ret.) Paul Eaton, whose father is buried in Section 60, described the campaign’s actions as “nauseating.”
Veterans’ Trust Eroded: Trump’s relationship with veterans has been strained over the years due to controversial remarks. Recently, he sparked outrage by suggesting that the civilian Presidential Medal of Freedom is “much better” than the military Medal of Honor, which is often awarded posthumously or to those severely injured.
A Call for Respect: Wellman emphasized that honoring the fallen must be done within the bounds of the law, noting that no family has the authority to permit activities that violate federal regulations at such a revered site.