August 29th 2024.
On Monday, former President Donald Trump attended a solemn wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery. It was a significant and poignant moment, as the country marked the third anniversary of the US's withdrawal from Afghanistan War.
However, the visit was marred by an unfortunate incident that has received widespread attention. According to reports, a cemetery employee was allegedly pushed aside by members of Trump's campaign during his visit. The Army, which oversees Arlington National Cemetery, has issued a rare rebuke of the former President's team for their actions.
An Army spokesperson confirmed that the cemetery worker was "abruptly pushed aside" while trying to ensure adherence to federal laws, Army regulations, and DoD policies that prohibit political activities on cemetery grounds. The incident was reported to the police, but the employee decided not to press charges. The Army spokesperson also stated that the employee acted professionally and with decorum, despite the disruption caused by the altercation.
In response to the incident, Trump shared a TikTok video on his account, which included clips from the cemetery visit. This may have violated federal law that prohibits the use of military burial grounds for political campaigning. The video, which was captioned "should have never happened," showed Trump laying a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and posing with Gold Star family members at their loved ones' gravestones.
During a campaign event in Michigan, Trump defended his actions, stating that he went to the site because families of fallen soldiers had requested his presence. He also mentioned that he took pictures with the families and their loved ones' graves at their request. Despite this, he was criticized for allegedly using the site for political purposes.
The Army spokesperson also expressed disappointment at the unfair attacks on the cemetery employee's professionalism. They confirmed that the matter is considered closed since the employee is not pursuing charges. However, the incident has sparked discussions about the use of military burial grounds for political purposes and the need to show respect and honor in such sacred places.
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