Donald Trump makes no speech at Veterans Day event, his first public appearance since election day
Donald Trump was unlike himself when he appeared publicly for the first time after the results of the 2020 presidential election were declared. The president was seen at the Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia on Wednesday, November 11, to commemorate Veterans Day, but unlike earlier, this time he did not say anything, instead preferred to be tight-lipped.
Trump visited the cemetery with his wife Melania and daughter Ivanka Trump, however, they did not arrive until well after the scheduled start time of 11 am. ET Vice President Mike Pence and Second Lady Karen Pence were also among the attendees along with Secretary of Veterans Affairs Robert Wilkie. It was the only event listed on the president's public schedule for November 11. At the event, POTUS observed a minute's silence and touched the wreath of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier before saluting. But he was also slammed for “blasphemy” as he made a mistake by saluting the flag at the ceremony. The blunder reportedly happened when the national anthem was played. As per the rule, only military members, including those in uniform and not in uniform and veterans are meant to salute the flag. The code states that "all other persons should face the flag and stand at attention with their right hand over their heart."
The Republican leader also released a proclamation paying respect to the federal holiday. He wrote in the statement: “America’s veterans have fought to defend our country, its values, and its interests since the first days of our founding. They have defeated tyrants, eliminated terrorists, and secured freedom at home and abroad. Their courage and fortitude in the face of adversity serve as an example for all Americans. On Veterans Day, we pause to pay tribute to all who have proudly worn our Nation’s uniform. These Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen selflessly placed lives, well‑being, and security of others before their own. We enjoy the privileges of peace, prosperity, and freedom because of our veterans, and we are forever indebted to them beyond measure.”
“For their love of country and dedication to duty, America’s veterans have endured adversity, loneliness, fatigue, loss, and made other incredible sacrifices. Many sustained life-altering physical injuries and disabilities; others bear the burden of emotional scars for the remainder of their lives. Our Nation’s veterans fully understand liberty’s high and precious cost, for they have paid it every day since the formation of our Republic,” he continued before adding: “As Commander in Chief, I have relentlessly fought to support America’s veterans. For far too long, our Government had not fully met its obligation to provide for “him who shall have borne the battle, and for his widow and his orphan.” I recognize that this country and its people are duty-bound to care for our exceptional veterans, their families, and their survivors. That is why, throughout my time in office, I have worked tirelessly to improve the health, welfare, and economic prosperity of these treasured people. In just a few short years, my Administration completely overhauled the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), removing employees who were not giving our veterans the care and attention they deserve and making the agency more accountable to the heroes it serves. I also signed into law the VA MISSION Act, which gives eligible veterans the choice to receive timely care from providers in their own communities.”
Reports also stated that the president-elect and future first lady Jill Biden attended another event at the Korean War Memorial Park in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. While Melania wore a textured, black, and gray coat dress for the ceremony, Jill opted for a navy blue peplum jacket that was belted around the waist along with a skirt of the same hue and a teal satin blouse underneath. To complete her look, she chose to wear pearl earrings and delicate gold necklaces. Along with the future first family, Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney was also seen at the Memorial Park.