ARLINGTON, Texas – On his Texas visit to rally Republican voters for the upcoming elections, President Donald Trump paid tribute to America’s valiant warriors the day before the September 11 anniversary. The event took place at the National Medal of Honor Museum, where Trump engaged privately with Medal of Honor recipients present.
During the gathering, Trump signed legislation to facilitate the establishment of a new monument on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., dedicated to honoring Medal of Honor awardees. Approximately 100 guests attended, including 16 of the nation’s 65 living Medal of Honor honorees.
“It’s very special for all of us,” remarked Trump, emphasizing the significance of the museum dedicated to the nation’s finest warriors. “It’s really the best they’ve ever produced.”
The intimate ceremony contrasted with Trump’s earlier address to a larger audience at the GOP midterm convention in Dallas.
Charlotte Jones, daughter of Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones and chairman of the museum’s board, served as emcee. Attendees included prominent Republicans like House Speaker Mike Johnson and Sen. Ted Cruz. Jones highlighted that the National Medal of Honor Museum is more than a military history museum.
“We are storytelling around the humans, about their courage, their sacrifice,” stated CEO Troy Bertram.
Trump’s speech expressed admiration for those honored by the museum.
“They stormed into hellfire and crushed America’s enemies,” he said, acknowledging their bravery and heroism.
Army Lt. Col. William Swenson, a board member, was commended for his courage in a 2009 Afghanistan battle during Operation Enduring Freedom. His efforts were recognized with the nation’s highest military decoration in 2013. Swenson noted Trump’s support for the museum project and the new monument in Washington, D.C.
Trump also discussed Hershel “Woody” Williams, for whom the new monument legislation is named. Williams was notably involved in the Battle of Iwo Jima during World War II. The event acknowledged his family and his contributions to American victory.
Swenson emphasized the importance of history and remembrance.
“Without this mythology, we don’t have that narrative,” he said, highlighting the significance of monuments and museums.
The event’s timing, on the eve of the 25th anniversary of September 11, touched Swenson personally. He reflected on how the tragedy shaped his life and career.
Swenson shared thoughts on the broader challenges faced by the U.S.
“There will always be challenges to our freedom and to our country,” he remarked, calling for learning from history to better guide the nation’s future.
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