Honoring Service Members at Arlington
On Veterans Day, President Trump paid tribute to military service members at Arlington National Cemetery by laying a wreath in recognition of their sacrifices.
Mr. Trump emphasized that America’s prosperity is deeply rooted in the contributions of the “fierce and noble men and women” of the U.S. military.
He stated, “Every captain of industry, every pioneer of science, and every star whose brilliance has illuminated Broadway shares one commonality: they owe their opportunities to veterans who had the courage to serve. The stars you read about would not exist without our veterans. Everything we have achieved as a nation has been earned through the muscle, spine, and steel of the United States military.”
Veterans Day is celebrated annually on November 11, marking the end of World War I. Known as Armistice Day in several countries, it became a federal holiday in 1938 and was renamed Veterans Day in 1954.
Accompanied by Vice President J.D. Vance, a Marine Corps veteran who served in Iraq, and Veterans Affairs Secretary Doug Collins—who also served in both the U.S. Navy Reserve and Air Force Reserve—Mr. Trump delivered a 25-minute speech reflecting on notable battles and acts of heroism throughout U.S. history.
“America stands tall because America’s veterans stood so strong,” he remarked. “The American veteran has forged an unparalleled legacy of gallantry.”
The president highlighted his administration’s initiatives aimed at improving conditions for veterans post-service, noting that the backlog at Veterans Affairs has been reduced by 50% since President Biden took office, with claims processed reaching an all-time high exceeding three million.
Additionally, he mentioned that over one million extra service hours have been added across various centers and that 20 new facilities have opened across 13 states.
Mr. Trump asserted that these advancements were achieved by dismissing numerous employees within Veterans Affairs whom he described as ineffective.
“We fight to win,” he said, “but under my leadership, we’re also fighting for our great veterans who have always been there for us when we needed them most.”
The president and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth are working to reinstate what they term a “warrior ethos” within the military by encouraging greater fitness among soldiers and implementing stricter grooming standards to refocus on combat readiness.
“Everyone in the military will now be required to pass a fitness test twice yearly,” Mr. Hegseth announced—a requirement previously not enforced—even for high-ranking officials like generals and admirals.
The duo has also committed to restoring meritocracy within military ranks, which they argue has been compromised by diversity initiatives.
The president has also expanded the role of the military for domestic law enforcement purposes across various cities including Los Angeles, Washington D.C., and Memphis.
