Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America Criticizes Trump for Politicking at Arlington National Cemetery

Politics John Brightwater August 30, 2024

Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America Criticizes Trump for Politicking at Arlington National Cemetery

The Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA) has expressed strong disapproval of former President Donald Trump’s actions during his recent visit to Arlington National Cemetery, characterizing the event as “politicking” on “sacred ground”. Allison Jaslow, the chief executive of IAVA, articulated her concerns in an interview with Newsweek, emphasizing the sanctity of Arlington and the appropriateness of honoring the fallen without the influence of political agendas. “When I visit Section 60, it is to honor the fallen and to remind myself that I am among the fortunate who returned home,” Jaslow affirmed. She further declared that Arlington should remain free from political exploitation, a sentiment that resonates within the veteran community.

During this visit, Trump participated in a wreath-laying ceremony commemorating U.S. soldiers who died in the 2021 Kabul airport attack amidst the withdrawal of American forces from Afghanistan. The event was mired in controversy as Trump’s campaign staff allegedly disregarded instructions from a cemetery official to refrain from taking photographs and videos in Section 60, which is dedicated to veterans of the Iraq and Afghanistan conflicts. Jaslow’s statement underscored that individuals seeking elected office, especially those aspiring to be Commander-in-Chief, should clearly understand that Arlington is not the venue for political discourse.

The situation escalated as it was reported that an altercation transpired between Trump’s campaign personnel and a cemetery official, leading to an official incident report filed with military authorities. Although the official, who remains unnamed, initially considered pressing charges, she later opted against it, citing concerns about potential retaliation from Trump supporters.

In response to these developments, Trump’s campaign spokesperson, Steven Cheung, contended that they had obtained permission to film, asserting that no prohibition against filming existed. He referred to a screenshot indicating that Trump’s team could include a photographer, provided they coordinated with one family for permission to film a grave site. However, Arlington National Cemetery contended that such activities contravened federal regulations.

A subsequent TikTok video featuring Trump, which showcased him smiling while laying a wreath, included a voice-over that criticized the Biden administration for its handling of the Afghanistan withdrawal. This video was notably accompanied by a music track and comments that many viewed as partisan. Furthermore, a photograph circulated on social media depicted Trump near the grave of Staff Sergeant Darin Taylor Hoover, but also inadvertently included the grave of Master Sergeant Andrew Marckesano without consent from his family for such imagery.

Criticism has mounted from veterans and former members of Trump’s administration alike, with Alyssa Farah Griffin deeming the incident “deeply inappropriate” and suggestive of a significant lapse in adhering to strict cemetery protocols. Trump’s running mate, JD Vance, dismissed the incident as overblown media sensationalism. Nonetheless, this is not the first occasion Trump has faced backlash from veterans; he has previously made contentious remarks regarding the Medal of Honor and disparaged the legacy of the late Senator John McCain, thereby continuing a pattern of discord with veterans.

In conclusion, the incident at Arlington National Cemetery casts a shadow over Trump’s reverence for military traditions and practices and underscores the critical need for political figures to respect the sanctity of memorial sites that honor the sacrifices made by service members. The community’s sentiments reflect a broader expectation that such spaces remain free from political maneuvering, thereby preserving their intended purpose of honoring those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for the nation.