President Donald Trump marked Memorial Day with a speech at Arlington National Cemetery that began with solemn words honoring fallen U.S. service members.
It soon veered into partisan territory as he took aim at former President Joe Biden and praised his own return to office.
The annual event, meant to reflect on the sacrifices of America’s war dead, drew high-level officials including Vice President JD Vance, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, and General Dan Caine. Trump opened his remarks by acknowledging the graves of soldiers buried at Arlington and in battlefields abroad, calling them the foundation of the American republic.
However, the tone shifted as Trump referenced what he described as a difficult period for the country, criticizing immigration policies under Biden and claiming the U.S. had suffered during those years. He framed his reelection as a necessary course correction, asserting that the country is now on track to be “greater than ever before.”
Though he briefly paused the political commentary, saying the ceremony wasn’t the place for certain discussions, he still wove in political themes while recounting stories of heroism. Among those mentioned was Shannon Kent, a Navy linguist and cryptologic technician who worked with elite military teams and was killed during a mission in Syria. Trump spoke directly to her family, praising her courage and calling her legacy eternal.
His speech returned to sweeping patriotic language, portraying the sacrifices of American troops as not only historic but vital for future generations. He described their actions as shaping a free and thriving nation, built on peace bought at a high price.
Noticeably absent was First Lady Melania Trump, who had regularly attended this event during her husband’s first term. No official reason was given for her absence.
While Trump’s appearance was intended to honor military service, the political undertones of his remarks left some viewers divided, with critics questioning the appropriateness of campaign-style rhetoric during a memorial tribute. Still, for his supporters, the message blended patriotism with a sense of renewed purpose under his leadership.