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This week Trump eventually gave an address at West Point, wherein he praised cadets for their commitment to service away from personal advancement. The White House had given out a video clip of the President’s remarks which included: “You could have done anything you wanted to! Instead of stock options… you chose honor and you chose sacrifice. They also call muddy boots and fatigues a little dirt, rather than business suits and dress shoes… You’re amazing people.
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His speech about the pains and sacrifices experienced by members of the services circulated on social media. Those who were in favor of the military showered some praise, while detractors used the platform to recount his failure to serve the military due to his deferments under the Vietnam War.
One user mockingly remarked, “First time a fascist felon addressed West Point,” with another describing Trump as a “traitor” and referring to Benedict Arnold. I must say, that is a grave indictment since Arnold is a name in American history synonymous with true defection to the British side during the Revolutionary War.
However, Trump’s message did gain popularity among supporters of the message. “Real heroes don’t chase profits—they chase purpose. Salute to those who wear the uniform not for what they gain, but for what they give,” commented one. Another ad-libbed, “They are the cutest people in the world,” as a playful remark about the graduates.
That said much more to many. Some broke tradition and issued rare exclamations of “Go Army, while the rest said that it was a “rambling mess” that fared better compared to a Kermit the Frog monologue.
The relationship with the military has always been complicated. His own draft dodging has remained contentious at least up until present despite Trump frequently lauding the military. “He dodged the draft 5 times. He’s that much of a coward,” said a detractor.
It also reignited the debate about working benefits. “The military should offer 401k’s just like corps,” said one, while others took this as an opportunity to air others, with one user declaring the graduates were “fighting for oil and power.”
Yet beyond the brouhaha, the real core of Trump’s message-honoring sacrifice-still resonates with many. “Thank you great people! You make a sacrifice for our country!” was shouted by one supporter. Another simply said, “God bless them each and every one.”
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Whether revered or lampooned, the address echoed an already existing and ongoing cultural divide pertaining to how military service is viewed by the public in America and those who honor them—and the reactions were anything but quiet, in true Trump fashion.
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