Trump, Vance, and Military Leaders Honor Fallen Heroes on Memorial Day
May 26, 2025 | Arlington, Virginia
Former U.S. President Donald J. Trump, alongside Vice President JD Vance, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, and Joint Chiefs Chairman Gen. Dan “Razin” Caine, led Memorial Day tributes at Arlington National Cemetery to honor fallen service members and their families.
At the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Trump laid a commemorative wreath and paid tribute to those who gave their lives in military service.
“The Republic stands because brave men and women answered the call of duty,” Trump said. “They paid the ultimate price, and our debt to them is eternal—it grows with each passing year.”
He acknowledged the enduring grief felt by Gold Star families, describing their loss as “an unfillable void” and “an unbreakable silence.”
This year’s Memorial Day holds added significance as it marks 250 years since the first American soldiers died in battle, Trump noted.
Vice President Vance emphasized two ways citizens can honor fallen troops daily:
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Treat military lives as sacred, urging leaders to send troops into conflict only when absolutely necessary.
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Live worthy lives in their honor—striving to be better family members, citizens, and patriots.
“Let’s build a stronger nation that lives up to their sacrifice,” Vance said.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth echoed those sentiments, quoting the famous line:
“The American soldier fights not out of hate for the enemy, but love for what they leave behind.”
He stressed the duty to preserve peace through strength, reminding the audience that preparing for war is essential to maintaining peace.
Air Force Gen. Dan “Razin” Caine, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, closed the ceremony with a call to action:
“We must carry the legacy of the fallen and live lives worthy of their sacrifice. We must never forget what they gave for us.
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