Chicago – August 29, 2024
U.S. Army officials indirectly criticized former President Donald Trump’s campaign on Thursday for “unfairly” attacking an Arlington National Cemetery employee involved in an incident with Trump staffers. The cemetery employee was “abruptly pushed aside” while enforcing rules against political activities at the cemetery, according to the Army’s statement. The incident on Monday was reported to the police, but the employee chose not to press charges. The Army considers the matter closed.
Trump’s campaign responded, with spokesman Steven Cheung accusing the employee of having a “mental health episode,” and senior adviser Chris LaCivita called the employee a “despicable individual.” The Army defended the employee without directly mentioning Trump’s campaign, saying it was “unfortunate” that her professionalism was attacked. The Army emphasized that Arlington National Cemetery is sacred, and its staff ensures that ceremonies are conducted respectfully. The incident occurred during Trump’s visit to honor U.S. service members who died in Afghanistan in 2021.
