President Donald Trump used Monday’s Memorial Day ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery to honor fallen soldiers while simultaneously advancing his political messaging and personal accomplishments. The traditional event saw Trump performing ceremonial duties alongside Vice President JD Vance and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth before delivering his address.
Trump’s speech included traditional elements of tribute, recounting stories of battlefield heroism and acknowledging the supreme sacrifice of service members. “They asked nothing. They gave everything. And we owe them everything and more,” he said of the fallen. However, these solemn moments were interspersed with partisan commentary about immigration and references to his plans to make America “greater than it has ever been before.”
The president’s remarks took an unusual turn when he spoke about upcoming events during his term, including the Army’s 250th anniversary, which he claimed would “blow away” both the World Cup and Olympics. Trump has previously faced criticism for comments perceived as disrespectful to military veterans, making his approach to this ceremonial occasion particularly notable.