Biden Visits a Military Cemetery in France That Trump Once Snubbed
President Joe Biden visited the Aisne-Marne American Cemetery and Memorial in France on Sunday, a military cemetery that former President Donald Trump skipped during a visit to the country in 2018.
Trump had been scheduled to visit the cemetery, which is located near the site of the Battle of Belleau Wood, but he canceled the trip due to rain. The White House said at the time that the president had been advised that the helicopter could not fly due to the weather.
However, it was later reported that Trump had actually been reluctant to make the trip because he did not want to get his hair wet.
Biden, who served as vice president under President Barack Obama, paid his respects to the fallen soldiers at the cemetery on Sunday, laying a wreath and speaking with veterans and their families.
“We’re here to honor the fallen, to remember the sacrifices they made, and to pay tribute to the valor they displayed,” Biden said during a speech at the cemetery. “We’re here to say, ‘Thank you.’ Thank you for your service. Thank you for your sacrifice. And thank you for your courage.”
The visit to the cemetery was part of Biden’s trip to Europe, where he is attending the G7 summit in the United Kingdom and meeting with leaders from other countries.
Trump has been criticized for his handling of military affairs during his time in office, including his decision to withdraw troops from Syria and his response to the COVID-19 pandemic. He has also been accused of disrespecting military traditions and protocols, such as when he reportedly ordered a military aide to hold up a Bible for a photo op outside a church in Washington, D.C. after protests over the death of George Floyd.
Biden, on the other hand, has made a point of emphasizing his respect for the military and its members. During his campaign, he pledged to end the “forever wars” in Afghanistan and Iraq, but also promised to ensure that the U.S. maintains a strong military and supports its veterans.