On August 26, 2024, President Donald Trump attended a memorial service at Arlington National Cemetery to honor the 13 soldiers who died in the tragic bombing at Abbey Gate during the chaotic Afghanistan withdrawal three years ago. The ceremony was held on the third anniversary of the attack, a day that remains a painful memory for many Americans. Notably absent from the event were President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, sparking criticism from Gold Star families and veterans.

Footage from the ceremony shows Trump placing a wreath at the grave of Staff Sergeant Ryan Knauss while speaking to his family over the phone. The former president laid wreaths at the graves of each of the 13 service members who lost their lives in the bombing. Trump later remarked that the soldiers’ deaths were avoidable, blaming Biden’s failure to properly plan the withdrawal. He emphasized that the botched exit not only cost American lives but also resulted in millions of dollars worth of military equipment being left behind, now in the hands of the Taliban.

Meanwhile, Vice President Harris remained in Washington, D.C., attending closed-door meetings, with no mention of the anniversary on her public schedule. The White House schedule for Biden was similarly empty, aside from a morning briefing. This absence has reignited anger among Gold Star families, who have previously expressed frustration with the administration’s handling of the incident.

Darin Hoover, father of fallen soldier Staff Sgt. Taylor Hoover, criticized the administration’s response, stating that families like his deserve better. His comments echo the sentiments of many who feel that the sacrifices of these soldiers have been overlooked. The contrast between Trump’s presence at Arlington and the absence of Biden and Harris underscores the ongoing political debate over accountability and respect for those who serve.