President Donald Trump honored America’s fallen heroes during a solemn Memorial Day ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery, laying a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and delivering remarks that paid tribute to the courage and sacrifice of U.S. service members.
Standing alongside Vice President JD Vance and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, President Trump placed the ceremonial wreath in front of the tomb, recognizing the unidentified heroes who gave their lives in service to the United States. The scene was one of dignity and reverence, with the president bowing his head in a moment of silence before addressing the nation.
“These warriors picked up the mantle of duty and service, knowing that to live for others meant always that they might die for others,” Trump said. “They asked nothing. They gave everything. And we owe them everything and more.”
In his address, Trump emphasized that the legacy of America’s fallen is not confined to statues or memorials, but is alive in the strength and freedom of the American people. “The greatest monument to their courage is not carved in marble or cast in bronze — it’s all around us,” he said. “An American nation 325 million strong, which will soon be greater than it has ever before.”
.@POTUS lays a wreath on the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery in honor of Memorial Day. pic.twitter.com/J61Gz9HSZr
— Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) May 26, 2025
The president shared the stories of two American heroes: Senior Chief Petty Officer Shannon Kent, who was killed in Syria in 2019 during a suicide bombing attack, and Senior Master Sergeant Elroy Harworth, who died fighting in Vietnam. Kent was the wife of Joe Kent, a Gold Star husband and former Republican congressional candidate who now serves as chief of staff to Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard.
Trump praised the fallen as “America’s best and bravest,” calling their service a model of selflessness and devotion to country.
“We just revere their incredible legacy,” he said. “We salute them in their eternal and everlasting glory. And we continue our relentless pursuit of America’s destiny as we make our nation stronger, prouder, freer, and greater than ever before.”
The ceremony served as a powerful reminder of the cost of freedom and the enduring gratitude owed to those who made the ultimate sacrifice. As America looks toward the future, Trump’s message was clear: honor the past, defend the present, and fight for a greater tomorrow.