Trump Campaign verbally and physically assaults Arlington Memorial staff, illegally uses site for campaigning

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:My question is, WHY was this being done NOW???

The Afghan withdrawal was in 2021. 3 years ago. THREE YEARS AGO.

There is one and only one reason why it was done NOW and that's because it was to try and boost Trump and to trash the Biden admin (and by extension Harris) BECAUSE IT'S ELECTION SEASON.

This was NOT an "official ceremony" and Biden wasn't informed, involved or anything.

All lies. A political stunt. And they abused one of our nation's most hallowed memorials to do it.

You are wrong.

It’s the 3rd anniversary of Abbey Gate.

That’s why it’s been 3 years- it’s the 3rd anniversary of the death of their children.

What made it an “official” ceremony? Who organized it at ANC or in the militar?

DP. Neither. It was not an official ceremony. Arlington National Cemetery did not organize it, the Department of Defense did not organize it. And, it only involved one family. An official ceremony would have been open to all of the Gold Star families who lost loved ones that day and typically would have additional elements such as color guard/honor guard, a military chaplain, and so on provided by DoD.

[Anonymous]

Wait, people think the president attends every burial for KIA???

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:I'm just joining now...

But why haven't the Biden/Harris Admin reached out more to the Gold Star Families of the Afghanistan withdrawal? Yes, I'm sure they would face ire--but it could be private meetings. The anguish of these families ... it seems a simple thing to 'do the right thing' and acknowledge and offer comfort, even if rejected. I don't really understand why they are just ignoring them.

Highly skeptical that you're "just joining now" (in fact, I think some of you are trolls and are sockpuppeting). I have a question for YOU: what is so special about this group of Gold Star families? Why should they be singled out for attention and not any other group of families of war dead?

OK, well, I guess you can ask Jeff to verify I haven't posted on this thread before if it matters to you.

I am not sure why you are answering a question with a question. My husband has served in combat under multiple administrations, and if he had been killed in combat, God forbid, I don't know if I would have been receptive to outreach from the CIC at the time - but I would certainly prefer it be proffered than not proffered. It is impossible to predict how families will react, which is why notification is such a tremendous duty, but it is the right thing to do to offer full ceremony, ritual and regard to Gold Star families. If it is rebuffed, it's rebuffed-but it seems a simple thing to do. I am wondering why it hasn't been done? It certainly is causing further division and pain.

I'm the PP you are responding to. I answered a question with a question because I STILL don't understand what is so special about this specific group of Gold Star families--given the enormity of loss represented at ANC. But I will try to answer your questions on the assumption that they are sincere. You asked: "But why haven't the Biden/Harris Admin reached out more to the Gold Star Families of the Afghanistan withdrawal? Yes, I'm sure they would face ire--but it could be private meetings. The anguish of these families ... it seems a simple thing to 'do the right thing' and acknowledge and offer comfort, even if rejected. I don't really understand why they are just ignoring them."

I can't speak for the Biden administration, but I'm assuming they're not reaching out to the families because it would be a damned if you do/damned if you don't situation. Since the incident occurred, it has become highly politicized and is a frequent line of attack against the Biden administration. Some of the relatives were openly hostile to Biden and criticized him publicly 3 years ago after Biden met with the families at Dover when the caskets were brought back. A subset of the families spoke at the recent RNC and, working with the Trump Campaign, have released a statement and videos which criticize Biden and Harris. The relatives are not looking for "comfort" from the Biden administration as you suggest. Some of them hold Biden personally culpable for their loved ones' deaths. You can be sure that if Biden met with them, even if privately, he would not be graciously received and every word of the interaction would be used against him. They've already made up their minds about what happened and who's at fault and there's nothing Biden or Harris can do or say to change that. Finally, Biden/Harris are not "just ignoring them"--the WH has said that B/H were not invited (https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/white-house/biden-harris-werent-invited-arlington-abbey-gate-trump-rcna169154).

Biden did meet with them though. Not all the families but I’m sure all would have been invited. They were unhappy with the meeting (they accused him of looking at his watch). But it most certainly happened.

Yes, he met with those of them that would meet with him (some refused) at Dover three years ago when the caskets came in and he was, as you say, criticized for looking at his watch, among other things. The issue is that some PPs are saying that Biden should have met with the families again in 2024, on the 3rd year anniversary.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:I'm just joining now...

But why haven't the Biden/Harris Admin reached out more to the Gold Star Families of the Afghanistan withdrawal? Yes, I'm sure they would face ire--but it could be private meetings. The anguish of these families ... it seems a simple thing to 'do the right thing' and acknowledge and offer comfort, even if rejected. I don't really understand why they are just ignoring them.

Highly skeptical that you're "just joining now" (in fact, I think some of you are trolls and are sockpuppeting). I have a question for YOU: what is so special about this group of Gold Star families? Why should they be singled out for attention and not any other group of families of war dead?

OK, well, I guess you can ask Jeff to verify I haven't posted on this thread before if it matters to you.

I am not sure why you are answering a question with a question. My husband has served in combat under multiple administrations, and if he had been killed in combat, God forbid, I don't know if I would have been receptive to outreach from the CIC at the time - but I would certainly prefer it be proffered than not proffered. It is impossible to predict how families will react, which is why notification is such a tremendous duty, but it is the right thing to do to offer full ceremony, ritual and regard to Gold Star families. If it is rebuffed, it's rebuffed-but it seems a simple thing to do. I am wondering why it hasn't been done? It certainly is causing further division and pain.

I'm the PP you are responding to. I answered a question with a question because I STILL don't understand what is so special about this specific group of Gold Star families--given the enormity of loss represented at ANC. But I will try to answer your questions on the assumption that they are sincere. You asked: "But why haven't the Biden/Harris Admin reached out more to the Gold Star Families of the Afghanistan withdrawal? Yes, I'm sure they would face ire--but it could be private meetings. The anguish of these families ... it seems a simple thing to 'do the right thing' and acknowledge and offer comfort, even if rejected. I don't really understand why they are just ignoring them."

I can't speak for the Biden administration, but I'm assuming they're not reaching out to the families because it would be a damned if you do/damned if you don't situation. Since the incident occurred, it has become highly politicized and is a frequent line of attack against the Biden administration. Some of the relatives were openly hostile to Biden and criticized him publicly 3 years ago after Biden met with the families at Dover when the caskets were brought back. A subset of the families spoke at the recent RNC and, working with the Trump Campaign, have released a statement and videos which criticize Biden and Harris. The relatives are not looking for "comfort" from the Biden administration as you suggest. Some of them hold Biden personally culpable for their loved ones' deaths. You can be sure that if Biden met with them, even if privately, he would not be graciously received and every word of the interaction would be used against him. They've already made up their minds about what happened and who's at fault and there's nothing Biden or Harris can do or say to change that. Finally, Biden/Harris are not "just ignoring them"--the WH has said that B/H were not invited (https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/white-house/biden-harris-werent-invited-arlington-abbey-gate-trump-rcna169154).

Biden did meet with them though. Not all the families but I’m sure all would have been invited. They were unhappy with the meeting (they accused him of looking at his watch). But it most certainly happened.

DP. Biden was at the dignified transfer ceremony (and he did look at his watch - it's on camera). However, Harris was not at the dignified transfer ceremony, despite the on-air claim by NBC (which was subject to a very weak retraction on X). Harris is the one running for President and continues to use the ANC ceremony events as a political cudgel against Trump.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:I'm just joining now...

But why haven't the Biden/Harris Admin reached out more to the Gold Star Families of the Afghanistan withdrawal? Yes, I'm sure they would face ire--but it could be private meetings. The anguish of these families ... it seems a simple thing to 'do the right thing' and acknowledge and offer comfort, even if rejected. I don't really understand why they are just ignoring them.

Highly skeptical that you're "just joining now" (in fact, I think some of you are trolls and are sockpuppeting). I have a question for YOU: what is so special about this group of Gold Star families? Why should they be singled out for attention and not any other group of families of war dead?

OK, well, I guess you can ask Jeff to verify I haven't posted on this thread before if it matters to you.

I am not sure why you are answering a question with a question. My husband has served in combat under multiple administrations, and if he had been killed in combat, God forbid, I don't know if I would have been receptive to outreach from the CIC at the time - but I would certainly prefer it be proffered than not proffered. It is impossible to predict how families will react, which is why notification is such a tremendous duty, but it is the right thing to do to offer full ceremony, ritual and regard to Gold Star families. If it is rebuffed, it's rebuffed-but it seems a simple thing to do. I am wondering why it hasn't been done? It certainly is causing further division and pain.

I'm the PP you are responding to. I answered a question with a question because I STILL don't understand what is so special about this specific group of Gold Star families--given the enormity of loss represented at ANC. But I will try to answer your questions on the assumption that they are sincere. You asked: "But why haven't the Biden/Harris Admin reached out more to the Gold Star Families of the Afghanistan withdrawal? Yes, I'm sure they would face ire--but it could be private meetings. The anguish of these families ... it seems a simple thing to 'do the right thing' and acknowledge and offer comfort, even if rejected. I don't really understand why they are just ignoring them."

I can't speak for the Biden administration, but I'm assuming they're not reaching out to the families because it would be a damned if you do/damned if you don't situation. Since the incident occurred, it has become highly politicized and is a frequent line of attack against the Biden administration. Some of the relatives were openly hostile to Biden and criticized him publicly 3 years ago after Biden met with the families at Dover when the caskets were brought back. A subset of the families spoke at the recent RNC and, working with the Trump Campaign, have released a statement and videos which criticize Biden and Harris. The relatives are not looking for "comfort" from the Biden administration as you suggest. Some of them hold Biden personally culpable for their loved ones' deaths. You can be sure that if Biden met with them, even if privately, he would not be graciously received and every word of the interaction would be used against him. They've already made up their minds about what happened and who's at fault and there's nothing Biden or Harris can do or say to change that. Finally, Biden/Harris are not "just ignoring them"--the WH has said that B/H were not invited (https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/white-house/biden-harris-werent-invited-arlington-abbey-gate-trump-rcna169154).

Biden did meet with them though. Not all the families but I’m sure all would have been invited. They were unhappy with the meeting (they accused him of looking at his watch). But it most certainly happened.

He was wearing his dead son Beau's watch and Beau's rosary on his wrist and looked at it. Biden still blames Afghanistan service for his son's death due to cancer from proximity to toxic burn pits.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:My question is, WHY was this being done NOW???

The Afghan withdrawal was in 2021. 3 years ago. THREE YEARS AGO.

There is one and only one reason why it was done NOW and that's because it was to try and boost Trump and to trash the Biden admin (and by extension Harris) BECAUSE IT'S ELECTION SEASON.

This was NOT an "official ceremony" and Biden wasn't informed, involved or anything.

All lies. A political stunt. And they abused one of our nation's most hallowed memorials to do it.

Biden wasn’t informed?

He released a statement about the Arlington Wreath Laying Ceremony.

Everything about your comment is false.

AUGUST 26, 2024
Statement from President Joe Biden on the Anniversary of the Terrorist Attack Outside Kabul Airport
HOME
BRIEFING ROOM
STATEMENTS AND RELEASES
Three years ago, an ISIS suicide bomber launched an attack of deliberate evil at Abbey Gate outside of Kabul Airport—killing 13 American service members and more than 100 innocent Afghans. Today, and every day, we honor our fallen:

Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Darin T. Hoover

Marine Corps Sgt. Johanny Rosario Pichardo

Marine Corps Sgt. Nicole L. Gee

Marine Corps Cpl. Hunter Lopez

Marine Corps Cpl. Daegan W. Page

Marine Corps Cpl. Humberto A. Sanchez

Marine Corps Lance Cpl. David L. Espinoza

Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Jared M. Schmitz

Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Rylee J. McCollum

Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Dylan R. Merola

Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Kareem M. Nikoui

Navy Petty Officer Third Class Maxton W. Soviak

Army Staff Sgt. Ryan C. Knauss

These 13 Americans—and the many more that were wounded—were patriots in the highest sense. Some were born the year the war in Afghanistan started. Some were on their second or third tour. But all raised their hand to serve a cause greater than themselves—risking their own safety for the safety of their fellow Americans, Allies, and Afghan partners. They embodied the very best of who we are as a nation: brave, committed, selfless. And we owe them and their families a sacred debt we will never be able to fully repay, but will never cease working to fulfill.

We also owe their brothers and sisters-in-arms—who served and sacrificed for our freedom and future during America’s longest war. 20,744 American service members were wounded. 2,461 made the ultimate sacrifice. They were sons and daughters, mothers and fathers, spouses and friends. No matter how much time passes, the pain of their loss will remain real and raw. And so will the pride we feel in their service. From the deserts of Helmand, to the mountains of Kunduz, and everywhere in between—these women and men worked alongside our Afghan partners to protect our nation. And deployment after deployment, tour after tour, they dared all, risked all, and gave all to keep us safe.

Today, our longest war is over. But our commitment to preventing attacks on our homeland—or our people—never will be. We will continue to disrupt terrorist activity, wherever we find it. We will continue to deliver justice to terrorists who plot against America—just as we have over the last three years with the leader of al-Qaeda and the global leader of ISIS. And we will do so without deploying thousands of American troops to ground wars overseas.

Ever since I became Vice President, I carried a card with me every day that listed the exact number of American service members who were killed in Iraq and Afghanistan—including Taylor, Johanny, Nicole, Hunter, Daegan, Humberto, David, Jared, Rylee, Dylan, Kareem, Maxton, and Ryan. Because we must never forget the immense price that was paid for our freedom. We must never forget that each beloved service member we lost was a human being, who left behind entire families and communities. And together, we must never stop striving to be worthy of their ultimate sacrifice.

Today, we vow we never will. May God bless each of our fallen heroes. May God bless all those who served and sacrificed. And may He keep them and their families close—today and always.

https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2024/08/26/statement-from-president-joe-biden-on-the-anniversary-of-the-terrorist-attack-outside-kabul-airport/

He released a statement on the anniversary. Where in that statement is there any reference to a wreath-laying ceremony?

Biden issued a statement that honored ALL 13 of the soldiers that died that day. What Trump went to was a PRIVATE, UNOFFICIAL event involving ONLY ONE of the fallen. Trump did nothing for the other 12 or their families, did he.

And AGAIN it should be pointed out that Trump had SIGNIFICANT culpability in what happened that day.

The chaotic withdrawal was caused by a range of factors and decisions made during the Trump administration. Here’s examples of key Trump actions and decisions that contributed to the problematic withdrawal:

1. Secret Negotiations with the Taliban
Involvement of the Afghan Government: The Trump administration engaged in direct negotiations with the Taliban, sidelining the Afghan government and sidelining multinational allies. The Doha Agreement, signed in February 2020, was a a huge part of this. The Afghan government was not a formal party to these negotiations, which undermined its position and authority.

Impact on Afghan Government Morale and Legitimacy: The exclusion of the Afghan government from these talks weakened its credibility and ability to negotiate from a position of strength. It also led to a perception among the Afghan people and international partners that the U.S. was abandoning its allies.

2. Troop Drawdown
Drawdown Timetable: The Trump administration committed to reducing the number of U.S. troops in Afghanistan significantly as part of the Doha Agreement. This included plans to cut the number of troops to 2,500 by early 2021, which was a key provision in the agreement with the Taliban.

Effects on Security: The rapid reduction in troop numbers led to a decrease in U.S. and NATO forces available to support Afghan security forces. This reduction was perceived by the Taliban as a weakening of U.S. commitment, emboldening their offensive actions. It also left the US with significantly less troops to have a secured and orderly withdrawal of the remaining troops, assets and American allies fleeing Afghanistan.

3. Closing Offices and Infrastructure
Reduction of Diplomatic and Support Presence: During the Trump administration, there were significant reductions in diplomatic and support personnel in Afghanistan. This included the downsizing of the U.S. Embassy and the closure of various support offices.

Impact on Withdrawal Planning: The reduction of on-ground infrastructure and personnel limited the ability to plan and execute a comprehensive and orderly withdrawal strategy. It also affected the capacity to coordinate with Afghan and allied forces on the ground.

4. Lack of Continuity and Transition Planning
Transition to the Biden Administration: The Trump administration's abrupt changes in policy and the decision to begin a substantial drawdown without a clear, cohesive plan for the transition contributed to difficulties faced by the incoming Biden administration. There was limited continuity in strategic planning and execution, which hampered an orderly handover. As General McMaster and others said, "the cupboards were bare."

Impact on Strategic Planning: The lack of a detailed, coordinated plan for the final stages of the withdrawal meant that the Biden administration had to grapple with a situation that had not been fully addressed or planned for in advance. This lack of continuity contributed to the difficulties in managing the final withdrawal process effectively.

5. Implementation and Enforcement of Trump's Doha Agreement
Terms of the Agreement: The Doha Agreement contained terms that were challenging to enforce and led to significant leverage for the Taliban. While it was intended to facilitate peace talks and a gradual withdrawal, the agreement's implementation often fell short, particularly in terms of achieving its intended goals of reducing violence and fostering a stable political transition in Afghanistan.

The withdrawal was in effect already sabotaged ahead of time by Trump. That really can't even be disputed.

The Wreath laying ceremony was private and unofficial? Citation?

Where's the citation that this wreath event was public and officially organized, by ANC or the military or whoever it is you want to call "official"? Thanks for playing along!

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Wait, people think the president attends every burial for KIA???

Do people here think the President (or ex-President) attends the random (3rd) anniversary of every KIA?

NOPE. A sleazy one might do it if it's within 2 months of election day.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:My question is, WHY was this being done NOW???

The Afghan withdrawal was in 2021. 3 years ago. THREE YEARS AGO.

There is one and only one reason why it was done NOW and that's because it was to try and boost Trump and to trash the Biden admin (and by extension Harris) BECAUSE IT'S ELECTION SEASON.

This was NOT an "official ceremony" and Biden wasn't informed, involved or anything.

All lies. A political stunt. And they abused one of our nation's most hallowed memorials to do it.

Biden wasn’t informed?

He released a statement about the Arlington Wreath Laying Ceremony.

Everything about your comment is false.

AUGUST 26, 2024
Statement from President Joe Biden on the Anniversary of the Terrorist Attack Outside Kabul Airport
HOME
BRIEFING ROOM
STATEMENTS AND RELEASES
Three years ago, an ISIS suicide bomber launched an attack of deliberate evil at Abbey Gate outside of Kabul Airport—killing 13 American service members and more than 100 innocent Afghans. Today, and every day, we honor our fallen:

Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Darin T. Hoover

Marine Corps Sgt. Johanny Rosario Pichardo

Marine Corps Sgt. Nicole L. Gee

Marine Corps Cpl. Hunter Lopez

Marine Corps Cpl. Daegan W. Page

Marine Corps Cpl. Humberto A. Sanchez

Marine Corps Lance Cpl. David L. Espinoza

Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Jared M. Schmitz

Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Rylee J. McCollum

Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Dylan R. Merola

Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Kareem M. Nikoui

Navy Petty Officer Third Class Maxton W. Soviak

Army Staff Sgt. Ryan C. Knauss

These 13 Americans—and the many more that were wounded—were patriots in the highest sense. Some were born the year the war in Afghanistan started. Some were on their second or third tour. But all raised their hand to serve a cause greater than themselves—risking their own safety for the safety of their fellow Americans, Allies, and Afghan partners. They embodied the very best of who we are as a nation: brave, committed, selfless. And we owe them and their families a sacred debt we will never be able to fully repay, but will never cease working to fulfill.

We also owe their brothers and sisters-in-arms—who served and sacrificed for our freedom and future during America’s longest war. 20,744 American service members were wounded. 2,461 made the ultimate sacrifice. They were sons and daughters, mothers and fathers, spouses and friends. No matter how much time passes, the pain of their loss will remain real and raw. And so will the pride we feel in their service. From the deserts of Helmand, to the mountains of Kunduz, and everywhere in between—these women and men worked alongside our Afghan partners to protect our nation. And deployment after deployment, tour after tour, they dared all, risked all, and gave all to keep us safe.

Today, our longest war is over. But our commitment to preventing attacks on our homeland—or our people—never will be. We will continue to disrupt terrorist activity, wherever we find it. We will continue to deliver justice to terrorists who plot against America—just as we have over the last three years with the leader of al-Qaeda and the global leader of ISIS. And we will do so without deploying thousands of American troops to ground wars overseas.

Ever since I became Vice President, I carried a card with me every day that listed the exact number of American service members who were killed in Iraq and Afghanistan—including Taylor, Johanny, Nicole, Hunter, Daegan, Humberto, David, Jared, Rylee, Dylan, Kareem, Maxton, and Ryan. Because we must never forget the immense price that was paid for our freedom. We must never forget that each beloved service member we lost was a human being, who left behind entire families and communities. And together, we must never stop striving to be worthy of their ultimate sacrifice.

Today, we vow we never will. May God bless each of our fallen heroes. May God bless all those who served and sacrificed. And may He keep them and their families close—today and always.

https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2024/08/26/statement-from-president-joe-biden-on-the-anniversary-of-the-terrorist-attack-outside-kabul-airport/

He released a statement on the anniversary. Where in that statement is there any reference to a wreath-laying ceremony?

Biden issued a statement that honored ALL 13 of the soldiers that died that day. What Trump went to was a PRIVATE, UNOFFICIAL event involving ONLY ONE of the fallen. Trump did nothing for the other 12 or their families, did he.

And AGAIN it should be pointed out that Trump had SIGNIFICANT culpability in what happened that day.

The chaotic withdrawal was caused by a range of factors and decisions made during the Trump administration. Here’s examples of key Trump actions and decisions that contributed to the problematic withdrawal:

1. Secret Negotiations with the Taliban
Involvement of the Afghan Government: The Trump administration engaged in direct negotiations with the Taliban, sidelining the Afghan government and sidelining multinational allies. The Doha Agreement, signed in February 2020, was a a huge part of this. The Afghan government was not a formal party to these negotiations, which undermined its position and authority.

Impact on Afghan Government Morale and Legitimacy: The exclusion of the Afghan government from these talks weakened its credibility and ability to negotiate from a position of strength. It also led to a perception among the Afghan people and international partners that the U.S. was abandoning its allies.

2. Troop Drawdown
Drawdown Timetable: The Trump administration committed to reducing the number of U.S. troops in Afghanistan significantly as part of the Doha Agreement. This included plans to cut the number of troops to 2,500 by early 2021, which was a key provision in the agreement with the Taliban.

Effects on Security: The rapid reduction in troop numbers led to a decrease in U.S. and NATO forces available to support Afghan security forces. This reduction was perceived by the Taliban as a weakening of U.S. commitment, emboldening their offensive actions. It also left the US with significantly less troops to have a secured and orderly withdrawal of the remaining troops, assets and American allies fleeing Afghanistan.

3. Closing Offices and Infrastructure
Reduction of Diplomatic and Support Presence: During the Trump administration, there were significant reductions in diplomatic and support personnel in Afghanistan. This included the downsizing of the U.S. Embassy and the closure of various support offices.

Impact on Withdrawal Planning: The reduction of on-ground infrastructure and personnel limited the ability to plan and execute a comprehensive and orderly withdrawal strategy. It also affected the capacity to coordinate with Afghan and allied forces on the ground.

4. Lack of Continuity and Transition Planning
Transition to the Biden Administration: The Trump administration's abrupt changes in policy and the decision to begin a substantial drawdown without a clear, cohesive plan for the transition contributed to difficulties faced by the incoming Biden administration. There was limited continuity in strategic planning and execution, which hampered an orderly handover. As General McMaster and others said, "the cupboards were bare."

Impact on Strategic Planning: The lack of a detailed, coordinated plan for the final stages of the withdrawal meant that the Biden administration had to grapple with a situation that had not been fully addressed or planned for in advance. This lack of continuity contributed to the difficulties in managing the final withdrawal process effectively.

5. Implementation and Enforcement of Trump's Doha Agreement
Terms of the Agreement: The Doha Agreement contained terms that were challenging to enforce and led to significant leverage for the Taliban. While it was intended to facilitate peace talks and a gradual withdrawal, the agreement's implementation often fell short, particularly in terms of achieving its intended goals of reducing violence and fostering a stable political transition in Afghanistan.

The withdrawal was in effect already sabotaged ahead of time by Trump. That really can't even be disputed.

Thank you for taking the time to post this.

[Anonymous]

I can't believe people are still defending Trump here, trying to deflect or make excuses here.

NOTHING here excuses verbally and physically assaulting Arlington National Cemetery staff while merely trying to do their jobs on one of America's most hallowed grounds.

NOTHING.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Wait, people think the president attends every burial for KIA???

Not only burial, but apparently every anniversary for every soldier in Sector 60.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:My question is, WHY was this being done NOW???

The Afghan withdrawal was in 2021. 3 years ago. THREE YEARS AGO.

There is one and only one reason why it was done NOW and that's because it was to try and boost Trump and to trash the Biden admin (and by extension Harris) BECAUSE IT'S ELECTION SEASON.

This was NOT an "official ceremony" and Biden wasn't informed, involved or anything.

All lies. A political stunt. And they abused one of our nation's most hallowed memorials to do it.

You are wrong.

It’s the 3rd anniversary of Abbey Gate.

That’s why it’s been 3 years- it’s the 3rd anniversary of the death of their children.

If so, did they also do this on the 1st and 2nd anniversary? I don't recall Trump going to Arlington for those. Because THIS DIDN'T HAPPEN THEN. And, the same rules were in place in 2023 and 2022 had they gone for the 1st and 2nd anniversary, so they should have known the rules by now.

3 years was arbitrary. It was an election stunt meant to help Trump. But one that failed.

Why would it help Trump?

Going to give the question the benefit of the doubt that it is in good faith.

The plan of the Trump campaign was to show Trump with the Abbey Gate families, laying wreath, and claiming that Harris and Biden did not show up to the ceremony. Showing that Harris is callous and uncaring of the military.

Except of course, there was no ceremony, Harris and Biden were not invited but Trump was, and then they made a has of it by being disrespectful to the fallen buried near the graves, and breaking federal law by using the footage from it on their social media.

Citation?

You are claiming Trump planned the ceremony?

Where did you find that information?

I don't think Trump is capable of planning anything, so no. Did the Trump campaign coordinate with some of the Abbey Gate families to use this event for political purposes? Absolutely.

"Some family members of those killed have blamed the attack on the Biden administration’s handling of the withdrawal, and have aligned with the Trump campaign — including by appearing at the Republican national convention in July. And when planning an Arlington cemetery event to mark the attack’s third anniversary, they invited Trump.

Since it is the height of the presidential campaign season, and since Trump has long criticized the Biden administration’s handling of the Afghanistan withdrawal, US defense officials were concerned that the event could become inappropriately or even illegally political, the Washington Post reports — that it was a campaign event in disguise.

So, officials laid down some restrictions. One was that Trump wasn’t supposed to bring his campaign staff. Another was that, after an initial ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier that was open to the press, Trump’s visits to individual veterans’ graves, in a section of the cemetery reserved primarily for veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan, would be private.

But Trump brought campaign aides anyway. And two of those aides — a campaign photographer and a videographer — tried to go with Trump to the individual graves. An Arlington cemetery staff member tried to stop the aides, but, per the Post, “a larger male campaign aide insisted the camera was allowed and pushed past the cemetery employee, leaving her shocked.” According to NPR, Trump campaign staff also “verbally abused” the official.

After the ceremony, the Trump campaign organized a press call in which several family members of the servicemembers killed at Kabul praised Trump and criticized Biden and Harris."

https://www.vox.com/2024-elections/369711/trump-arlington-cemetery-controversy-army

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:I'm just joining now...

But why haven't the Biden/Harris Admin reached out more to the Gold Star Families of the Afghanistan withdrawal? Yes, I'm sure they would face ire--but it could be private meetings. The anguish of these families ... it seems a simple thing to 'do the right thing' and acknowledge and offer comfort, even if rejected. I don't really understand why they are just ignoring them.

Highly skeptical that you're "just joining now" (in fact, I think some of you are trolls and are sockpuppeting). I have a question for YOU: what is so special about this group of Gold Star families? Why should they be singled out for attention and not any other group of families of war dead?

OK, well, I guess you can ask Jeff to verify I haven't posted on this thread before if it matters to you.

I am not sure why you are answering a question with a question. My husband has served in combat under multiple administrations, and if he had been killed in combat, God forbid, I don't know if I would have been receptive to outreach from the CIC at the time - but I would certainly prefer it be proffered than not proffered. It is impossible to predict how families will react, which is why notification is such a tremendous duty, but it is the right thing to do to offer full ceremony, ritual and regard to Gold Star families. If it is rebuffed, it's rebuffed-but it seems a simple thing to do. I am wondering why it hasn't been done? It certainly is causing further division and pain.

I'm the PP you are responding to. I answered a question with a question because I STILL don't understand what is so special about this specific group of Gold Star families--given the enormity of loss represented at ANC. But I will try to answer your questions on the assumption that they are sincere. You asked: "But why haven't the Biden/Harris Admin reached out more to the Gold Star Families of the Afghanistan withdrawal? Yes, I'm sure they would face ire--but it could be private meetings. The anguish of these families ... it seems a simple thing to 'do the right thing' and acknowledge and offer comfort, even if rejected. I don't really understand why they are just ignoring them."

I can't speak for the Biden administration, but I'm assuming they're not reaching out to the families because it would be a damned if you do/damned if you don't situation. Since the incident occurred, it has become highly politicized and is a frequent line of attack against the Biden administration. Some of the relatives were openly hostile to Biden and criticized him publicly 3 years ago after Biden met with the families at Dover when the caskets were brought back. A subset of the families spoke at the recent RNC and, working with the Trump Campaign, have released a statement and videos which criticize Biden and Harris. The relatives are not looking for "comfort" from the Biden administration as you suggest. Some of them hold Biden personally culpable for their loved ones' deaths. You can be sure that if Biden met with them, even if privately, he would not be graciously received and every word of the interaction would be used against him. They've already made up their minds about what happened and who's at fault and there's nothing Biden or Harris can do or say to change that. Finally, Biden/Harris are not "just ignoring them"--the WH has said that B/H were not invited (https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/white-house/biden-harris-werent-invited-arlington-abbey-gate-trump-rcna169154).

Biden did meet with them though. Not all the families but I’m sure all would have been invited. They were unhappy with the meeting (they accused him of looking at his watch). But it most certainly happened.

DP. Biden was at the dignified transfer ceremony (and he did look at his watch - it's on camera). However, Harris was not at the dignified transfer ceremony, despite the on-air claim by NBC (which was subject to a very weak retraction on X). Harris is the one running for President and continues to use the ANC ceremony events as a political cudgel against Trump.

But that’s disingenuous. As VPOTUS she wouldn’t have attended. This happened right after Trump left office and long before she was running for president.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:I'm just joining now...

But why haven't the Biden/Harris Admin reached out more to the Gold Star Families of the Afghanistan withdrawal? Yes, I'm sure they would face ire--but it could be private meetings. The anguish of these families ... it seems a simple thing to 'do the right thing' and acknowledge and offer comfort, even if rejected. I don't really understand why they are just ignoring them.

Highly skeptical that you're "just joining now" (in fact, I think some of you are trolls and are sockpuppeting). I have a question for YOU: what is so special about this group of Gold Star families? Why should they be singled out for attention and not any other group of families of war dead?

I think the answer, in part, is that this was arguably the greatest military and foreign policy disaster since Vietnam and likely set in motion a chain of events including the invasion of Ukraine, the attack on Israel and china’s increased aggression in the pacific. Regardless if he was invited or not he should not have been sunning himself on the beach that day.

I beg to differ. I think the great loss of life (over 240 US personnel killed and 60+ non-Americans) that occurred at the Marine Corps Baracks in Beirut in 1983 under Ronald Reagan was much worse.

That was also a horrible day for our country. But the macro geopolitical fallout from the botched withdrawal is exponentially worse and growing.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:I'm just joining now...

But why haven't the Biden/Harris Admin reached out more to the Gold Star Families of the Afghanistan withdrawal? Yes, I'm sure they would face ire--but it could be private meetings. The anguish of these families ... it seems a simple thing to 'do the right thing' and acknowledge and offer comfort, even if rejected. I don't really understand why they are just ignoring them.

Highly skeptical that you're "just joining now" (in fact, I think some of you are trolls and are sockpuppeting). I have a question for YOU: what is so special about this group of Gold Star families? Why should they be singled out for attention and not any other group of families of war dead?

I think the answer, in part, is that this was arguably the greatest military and foreign policy disaster since Vietnam and likely set in motion a chain of events including the invasion of Ukraine, the attack on Israel and china’s increased aggression in the pacific. Regardless if he was invited or not he should not have been sunning himself on the beach that day.

I beg to differ. I think the great loss of life (over 240 US personnel killed and 60+ non-Americans) that occurred at the Marine Corps Baracks in Beirut in 1983 under Ronald Reagan was much worse.

That was also a horrible day for our country. But the macro geopolitical fallout from the botched withdrawal is exponentially worse and growing.

+1

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:I'm just joining now...

But why haven't the Biden/Harris Admin reached out more to the Gold Star Families of the Afghanistan withdrawal? Yes, I'm sure they would face ire--but it could be private meetings. The anguish of these families ... it seems a simple thing to 'do the right thing' and acknowledge and offer comfort, even if rejected. I don't really understand why they are just ignoring them.

Highly skeptical that you're "just joining now" (in fact, I think some of you are trolls and are sockpuppeting). I have a question for YOU: what is so special about this group of Gold Star families? Why should they be singled out for attention and not any other group of families of war dead?

I think the answer, in part, is that this was arguably the greatest military and foreign policy disaster since Vietnam and likely set in motion a chain of events including the invasion of Ukraine, the attack on Israel and china’s increased aggression in the pacific. Regardless if he was invited or not he should not have been sunning himself on the beach that day.

I beg to differ. I think the great loss of life (over 240 US personnel killed and 60+ non-Americans) that occurred at the Marine Corps Baracks in Beirut in 1983 under Ronald Reagan was much worse.

That was also a horrible day for our country. But the macro geopolitical fallout from the botched withdrawal is exponentially worse and growing.

That’s a ridiculous statement