Secret Service helps former President Donald Trump offstage at a campaign event following an attempt on his life on July 14 in Butler, Pennsylvania (Photo: Gene J. Puskar/ Associated Press)
Following the recent assassination attempt on former President Trump on July 14 at a campaign event in Butler, Pennsylvania, American Legion National Commander Daniel J. Seehafer issued a statement expressing deep sorrow and condemnation of violence against political leaders.
“The American Legion is deeply saddened by the attack on former President Trump and the shooting of innocent spectators,” Seehafer stated. “There is absolutely no justification for violence against any political leader. We are confident that an investigation will reveal any security deficiencies that have occurred but are also grateful for the quick reaction by the brave secret service agents who shielded the president to safety and neutralized the shooter. Our prayers are with President Trump, and we wish him a full recovery. We also extend our condolences and prayers to the victims and families of all who have been impacted by this heinous act.”
The assailant, identified as 20-year-old Matthew Crooks from Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, armed with a semi-automatic rifle, fired eight rounds from a rooftop shed a relatively short distance from the stage where Trump was speaking. The former president only suffered a minor injury; however, spectator Corey Comperatore was killed while shielding his family and two others were also injured.
As the shooting unfolded, Trump was seen touching his ear, blood on his face, before being shielded by Secret Service agents and helped offstage into an SUV.
“I knew immediately that something was wrong when I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and felt the bullet ripping through my skin,” Trump recounted in a social media post later that evening. “There was much bleeding, so I realized what was happening.”
The Secret Service confirmed Trump’s safety. He received medical attention at a local hospital, leaving hours later. The gunman was fatally shot by a Secret Service sniper. FBI officials stated that Crooks appeared to be a lone actor, and the incident is being investigated as an assassination attempt and potential domestic terrorism.
Commander Seehafer expressed his hope that Americans would come together to condemn violence and reduce hateful rhetoric.
“In addition to the shooting at the Trump rally, we have seen horrific attacks on Paul Pelosi, Rep. Steve Scalise, and former Rep. Gabby Giffords. We should remind one another that political disagreements do not make us enemies. I pray that civility will become the norm in our discourse.”
President Biden responded to the shooting, expressing relief that Trump was safe and praising the Secret Service’s quick actions. He later addressed the nation, reinforcing the message of unity and announcing an independent review of the security measures at the Pennsylvania rally.
“There’s no place for this kind of violence in America. We must unite as one nation to condemn it,” Biden said.
Trump, in a post on Truth Social, thanked everyone for their thoughts and prayers, and announced his intention to continue his public engagements.
“In this moment, it is more important than ever that we stand united and show our true character as Americans,” Trump wrote, adding that he would not allow the attack to disrupt his schedule.
He confirmed his plans to travel to Milwaukee for the Republican National Convention despite considering a delay.
As the Republican National Convention begins, calls for unity resonate from both sides of the political aisle.
President Biden has since called for a review of Trump’s security detail following allegations the Secret Service failed to effectively protect the former president.
Author: Rikki Almanza
Rikki is a Web Content Coordinator for the American Legion, Department of California. With a deep-rooted connection to the military, a spouse who is a Navy veteran, a father who served in the Air Force for 25 years, and a grandfather who proudly served, Rikki is committed to using her skills and knowledge to provide valuable assistance and resources to servicemembers and veterans.
