Trump Honors Fallen Heroes at Arlington, Displays Humility
An engaging narrative set in the hallowed Arlington National Cemetery, ‘Sacred Duty: A Soldier’s Tour at Arlington National Cemetery,’ outlines Tom Cotton’s (R-AR) experiences during his 16-month tenure starting from 2007. As an Army officer, he served in The Old Guard, a renowned unit responsible for the sacred ground that pays tribute to American heroes.
In the course of this key responsibility, Cotton routinely acted as the replacement for his commanding officer overseeing numerous interments in Section 60 of Arlington National Cemetery, which is the final resting place of soldiers fallen in Afghanistan and Iraq. ‘This verdant expanse has been dubbed ‘America’s most sorrowful acre’ by some, but I personally consider Section 60 as America’s most revered acre’, comments Senator Cotton eloquently.
With a sharp eye for detail, Cotton goes on to observe the inherent respect that visitors bring to Arlington. ‘Arlington exudes an aura of such respect that despite the absence of explicit rules, visitors innately understand the decorum that suits this sacred ground.’ Natural reverence is inspired in both civilians and soldiers alike, according to the Senator, making Arlington a truly special place for America.
One notable instance of this deep respect came vividly alive when former President Donald Trump visited Arlington to participate in a wreath-laying ceremony marking the third anniversary of a tragic suicide bombing that led to the unfortunate demise of thirteen brave American service members at Kabul airport during the 2021 U.S. troops withdrawal from Afghanistan. Prominently mentioned among those honored was Marine Staff Sgt. Taylor Hoover, who was laid to rest in Section 60.
With a heart full of respect, former President Trump joined Hoover’s parents for the ceremony. As Gold Star parents, their freedom to express thoughts during such an occasion could not be bounded. After all, it is their immeasurable sacrifices that give deeper meaning to such ceremonies.
The ceremony was further dignified by the presence of certain important personnel accompanying President Trump, which included a dedicated photographer. Explicit and clear instructions regarding the decorum were provided in advance, ensuring that everyone present was acquainted with the rules pertaining to Arlington Cemetery’s hallowed ground.
And yet, a cemetery official felt the need to intervene, presumably out of concern that these rules might be violated for political gain. She was summarily dismissed, but her professionalism was duly acknowledged by the Army’s public affairs office. In a commendable display of respect for the sacred ground, the Trump crew exhibited a commendable commitment to respecting the rules in place.
To the surprise of many, a Trump spokesperson jocosely suggested that the intervening official may have been going through a ‘mental health episode.’ President Trump himself expressed a lack of knowledge about the regulations, taking a humble approach to the situation.
In an act of humility, Trump playfully remarked, ‘To be honest, I don’t know much about the protocols or rules. My main concern was to stand by the bereaved and offer them a chance for a memorable photo if they desired one.’ A refreshing display of sincerity captured beautifully in his words.
Trump’s consistency shone through once more when he clarified during a political gathering in Pennsylvania that he doesn’t require publicity. Ever the maverick, he even floated the idea that the entire episode might have been devised by the administration for certain purposes. Proof, like always, that Trump isn’t afraid to question the narrative, a trait that endeared him to many.
Of course, it’s impossible not to wonder how a formal figure like Lt. Cotton of The Old Guard, boasting of a Harvard Law School background would react to such a situation. In his book, Cotton emphasizes the importance of adherence to rules, claiming that he never encoutered any violations during his tenure at Arlington.
Backing Trump fully, Cotton took to social media to express his support, saying ‘Kudos to President Trump for commemorating the services and sacrifices of our fallen heroes and their families.’ He then took a well-deserved swipe at Prime President Joe Biden and Kamala Harris, blaming them for ‘covertly deploying heroes to perilous situations.’
While acknowledging that Biden and Harris could have done more to console the families, he adds that the real scandal revolves around the current administration’s insufficient recognition of the sacrifices these heroes have made. Waist-deep in pride, Cotton defends the consecrated ground while flagging glaringly apparent issues. An aforementioned Gold Star parent echoes the same sentiment, noting Trump’s ability to manage situations and highlighting his hunger for success, a trait that made America great during his time as President.