ARLINGTON, Texas — On a quick stop during his campaign swing in Texas, President Donald Trump took time on Thursday to pay tribute to America’s heroes, marking the day before the anniversary of the September 11, 2001, attacks.
This gathering, which felt quite personal, took place at the National Medal of Honor Museum, where Trump also had a private meeting with some of the Medal of Honor recipients present.
During the event, Trump signed a bill that facilitates the construction of a new monument for the award’s recipients on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. He then addressed around 100 attendees, including 16 of the 65 living Medal of Honor recipients in the country.
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“It’s very special for all of us,” Trump remarked. “It’s special for me to be here. This is an American treasure dedicated to our best and bravest warriors. Honestly, it represents the pinnacle of what they’ve achieved.”
In stark contrast to the massive crowd of thousands he had spoken to just hours earlier at the GOP midterm convention in Dallas, this event felt more intimate.
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Charlotte Jones, the daughter of Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones, who chairs the museum’s board, hosted the event while her father watched proudly from the front row, a point acknowledged by Trump during his speech.
Several high-profile Republican figures, like House Speaker Mike Johnson and Senator Ted Cruz, also attended the event.
Both Jones and Troy Bertram, the CEO of the museum, emphasized that the National Medal of Honor Museum (NMOH) tells stories of courage and sacrifice, rather than just focusing on military history.
Trump’s remarks were filled with admiration for those recognized by the museum.
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“They charged into the fire and defeated our enemies,” he said. “Their bravery is something few can comprehend. They rescued the wounded and took bullets for their comrades. It’s truly remarkable.”
Notably present was Army Lt. Col. William Swenson, whose bravery during a 2009 battle in Afghanistan earned him the Medal of Honor.
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Swenson received the highest military decoration in 2013 for his heroic actions during Operation Enduring Freedom. He was recognized for repeatedly risking his life to save his comrades during a prolonged and dangerous fight in Kunar Province.
Swenson expressed gratitude for Trump’s continued support of the museum project, highlighting the importance of honoring service and the messaging it sends to the nation.
Trump is collaborating with private donors to build this new monument near the Lincoln Memorial, designed to honor those who have received the Medal of Honor for their heroism. He had previously signed into law the Hershel “Woody” Williams National Medal of Honor Monument Location Act, which allowed for this initiative to proceed.
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Speaking about Woody Williams, who was honored by the bill, Trump noted that he faced one of the most perilous roles during the war as a flamethrower operator, helping lead American forces to victory at Iwo Jima.
Williams’ legacy, which the president celebrated alongside his family members present in the audience, underlines the heroism and sacrifice of those who served.
Trump concluded his remarks by affirming that the country will always remember the sacrifices made by these individuals. He stated, “We owe so much to them and to their families; their contributions to our nation are immeasurable.”
Swenson spoke on the significance of having monuments and museums to preserve history and shared beliefs that shape national identity.
The timing of the event, just before the 25th anniversary of 9/11, was not overlooked. Swenson noted that the tragic event shaped many lives, including his own as he served 22 years in the Army. He expressed a belief that America’s history is forged through adversity.
In his closing remarks, he emphasized the duty of citizens to learn from the past and work towards preventing future conflicts, thereby honoring those who fought for freedom.
