Staff Reports
Members of Gold Star Families, those who have paid the highest price for America’s freedoms, showed tremendous courage as they challenged President Biden and Vice President Harris on the anniversary of a tragic event that could have been avoided with competent leadership. They expressed their grief and anger over the loss of their loved ones, specifically those killed during the botched withdrawal from Afghanistan. One family member pointed out the administration’s apparent eagerness to pretend as if their failures never happened.
During a press call coinciding with the third anniversary of the Abbey Gate bombing at Kabul International Airport, family members of fallen servicemembers joined prominent Republican figures such as Sen. JD Vance and Congressmen Derrick Van Orden and Ryan Zinke. They didn’t hold back when it came to demanding accountability from the Biden-Harris administration, speaking out against a narrative that tries to paint the withdrawal as a success while downplaying the catastrophic consequences faced by brave servicemen and women.
Gold Star Families Rip Biden, Harris on Third Anniversary of Abbey Gate Bombing: 'They Just Want to Pretend It Didn't Happen' https://t.co/6wKCzWrEnf
— John Larson (@JohnLarson2204) August 27, 2024
Cheryl Juels, aunt of Marine Corps Sgt. Nicole L. Gee, was especially vocal, lamenting the absence of condolences from the White House. For families like hers, the administration’s refusal to acknowledge the loss is nothing short of a slap in the face. Juels elaborated that the reports surrounding the events that led to the deaths of these heroes are incomplete and misleading, suggesting that the administration is engaged in a deliberate cover-up. While they want to celebrate the end of the war, they ignore the realities of how it ended—all for the sake of protecting their political narrative.
Alicia Lopez, who mourns her son Hunter, echoed similar frustrations about the administration’s “lack of responsibility.” She poignantly expressed her anxiety, worrying that her own son, who is still serving, could face unimaginable risks due to an administration seemingly indifferent to the sacrifices of military service. Lopez wants leadership that genuinely supports and respects America’s servicemen and women—something many believe is severely lacking in the current administration.
Mark Schmitz, the father of Jared Schmitz, further emphasized the deception that has plagued the aftermath of the disastrous withdrawal. He called out Democrat politicians for their ineffective questioning of administration officials during hearings, which only serves to shield them from accountability. Schmitz underscored that this issue transcends party lines; it’s about American lives and the lack of competent leadership in times of crisis. He also highlighted a disturbing trend among Democrats to blame former President Trump, despite his administration’s relatively more stable approach to foreign policy.
The stark message from these Gold Star families is clear—they deserve better. They deserve an administration that values their sacrifices and addresses the failures that led to the loss of life in Afghanistan. As they continue to seek truth and accountability, their voices resonate loudly, not just for their families but for all American families who expect their leaders to honor and protect those who serve.
