
In a stirring moment during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, a Vietnam veteran presented former President Donald Trump with his Purple Heart, declaring him “more deserving” of such an honor. This poignant gesture followed a shocking assassination attempt that left firefighter Corey Comperatore dead and injured Trump and two others.
The presentation took place before Trump addressed supporters at a town hall in Fayetteville, North Carolina, moderated by Rep. Anna Paulina Luna (R-FL). Throughout the week, Trump had been actively involved in disaster relief for Hurricane Helene, successfully raising over $5.6 million to aid those affected by the storm.
Before introducing the veteran, who was called “Dwight,” Luna read a heartfelt letter he had sent to Trump following the shooting. In his letter, he expressed relief and admiration for Trump, stating, “God bless you, your family, and the United States of America.”
During the presentation, Trump joked about the notecard Dwight was holding, saying, “It looks like a check. It’s a check. It’s cash.” This humorous comment added levity to the solemn occasion, as the crowd reacted with laughter.
Dwight praised Trump for his bravery on the day of the shooting, recounting, “You laid down there, you got back up, and the first words out of your mouth was, ‘Fight, fight, fight.’” His words of praise, “You got guts,” resonated deeply with those present.
Trump reflected on the traumatic experience, remarking, “I got very lucky,” suggesting a belief in a higher power guiding him that day. He also recalled receiving a Purple Heart from another veteran during his 2016 campaign, further illustrating his connection with the military community.
Dwight raised serious concerns about the doubling of veteran homelessness from 7% to 14% under the Biden-Harris administration. He pressed Trump for his plans to provide aid to veterans rather than illegal immigrants occupying hotels. Trump confidently replied, “We’re going to take care of our veterans properly.”
The rally was attended by Comperatore’s family and billionaire Elon Musk, who has been vocal in his support for Trump’s presidential aspirations following the attempt on his life.