As most of America knows by now, President Donald Trump flew to Dover Air Force Base in Delaware Wednesday to be present for the dignified transfer of the remains of a U.S. Navy SEAL killed in Yemen.
The president’s daughter, Ivanka Trump, accompanied him on the solemn trip.
Chief Special Warfare Operator William “Ryan” Owens, 36, died Sunday “of wounds he sustained in a raid against al-Qieda” in Yemen, according to a Pentagon statement released Monday.
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While the pundits have their say and the president goes about doing the important work of the nation, veterans who have served our nation and made their own countless sacrifices reacted strongly to the president’s actions. This is what a number of American vets told LifeZette about Trump’s decision to be present at the return of this fallen SEAL’s remains:
Deena Ferguson of Maryville, Tennessee, U.S. Army, 2007-2011
“Not since the Bush administration have we seen a president who openly supports those who defend this country. It’s refreshing to once again have a president who acknowledges and honors the sacrifice of the men and women in the military.”
LCDR Joseph Speranzo of Newington, Virginia, U.S. Navy RET, 1985-2005
“It’s about time we have a president who has the heart to know when to visit a Gold Star family at a time like this, a spine to just do it, and the guts not to care about people’s criticisms of his actions.”
“It’s early in Trump’s presidency, but his attendance at this funeral is a positive for veterans and servicemen and women everywhere.”
John Cylc of Alcoa, Tennessee, U.S. Army, 1988-1996
“President Trump’s visit shows his support of our military and veterans. He recognizes the sacrifices that we all make, including the ultimate one in this case. Rest easy, Sailor.”
Anonymous from Maine, U.S. Army Reserves, 6 years
“Veterans and active soldiers are a small and brave group of Americans who are so often ignored. They want to see that their commander-in-chief cares and is willing to invest time. It’s early in Trump’s presidency, but his attendance at this funeral is a positive for veterans and servicemen and women everywhere.”
Jeff Caldwell of Lexington, Kentucky, U.S. Army, 1986-1995
“I believe it speaks volumes when a commander-in-chief values the sacrifices of those who serve under his command. I would gladly serve all over again for a man who obviously cares this much for those who are entrusted to his decisions.”
Refugio C. Salazar III of Long Beach, California, U.S. Army, 1991-2010
“That’s what a real commander-in-chief does! Not play golf! This is a real president showing honor, class, and most of all respect.”
Jarren Odum, USAF Security Forces Baghdad, Iraq 2010
“It’s reassuring to see the POTUS support and honor those who pay the ultimate sacrifice. It’s our job to defend and uphold our duties in life or death battles — but knowing it is not in vain is invigorating.”
Dale Pringle, U.S. Army, 82nd Airborne Division, 1983-1992
“Actions are louder than words. It is obvious President Trump loves this country and respects the military. As a veteran of the 82d Airborne Division, I find it comforting to see the commander-in-chief recognize the selfless sacrifice of this Navy SEAL.”
Mark Hasty Jr. of Maryville, Tennessee, USMC 1999-2007, Fallujah, Iraq 2005
“To have a president who does not take his decisions to send men and women into battle lightly is amazing. But to have a president who is humble enough to visit a fallen brother who sacrificed his life for this country is even more amazing.”
Eric Scavelli of Jacksonville, Florida, U.S. Army, Alpha Company, 3rd Battalion 75th Ranger Regiment, 1993-1997
“Actions always speak louder than words. President Trump’s simple gesture of being present to comfort the family and to show respect for a warrior who has made the ultimate sacrifice speaks not only to his character, but also to the high regard in which he holds our servicemen and women.”
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