Trump Honors Veterans at Arlington Cemetery on Veterans Day/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ President Trump led a Veterans Day commemoration at Arlington National Cemetery, delivering remarks and laying a wreath in honor of America’s service members. He reflected on the legacy of veterans, cited policy reforms under his administration, and urged citizens to recognize the day with gratitude and national pride.
Veterans Day 2025 Quick Looks
- President Trump honored U.S. veterans during a solemn Veterans Day ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery.
- In a proclamation, he marked 107 years since the end of WWI, recognizing the sacrifices of military personnel.
- Trump highlighted reforms made to the Department of Veterans Affairs, including expanded healthcare access and benefits.
- A new National Center for Warrior Independence aims to house 6,000 homeless veterans by 2028.
- The “One Big Beautiful Bill” makes the Trump tax cuts permanent and eliminates Social Security tax for most seniors.
- Trump committed to “always having veterans’ backs”, criticizing past administrations for neglecting them.
- He emphasized military history, citing battles like Verdun and Belleau Wood to showcase American strength.
- The proclamation urged all Americans to reflect, fly flags, and honor veterans through civic participation.
Trump Honors Veterans at Arlington National Cemetery on Veterans Day 2025
President Reflects on Service, Legacy, and Reform in Solemn Ceremony
Deep Look
ARLINGTON, Va. — November 11, 2025
President Donald Trump marked Veterans Day with a solemn ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery, where he delivered remarks honoring the service and sacrifice of America’s military veterans. The event included a traditional wreath-laying at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
Earlier that morning, Trump released an official proclamation recognizing November 11 as Veterans Day, commemorating the 107th anniversary of the end of World War I. In his statement, he praised generations of American service members for their courage, commitment, and role in preserving freedom.
“The story of America is written with the courage, honor, and dedicated service of our veterans,” the president said. “This Veterans Day, we show our gratitude and recommit to honor their service, uphold their legacy, and give every veteran the loyalty, respect, and support they have earned and so dearly deserve.”
A Focus on Reform and Renewal
During his remarks, Trump emphasized the progress made under his leadership to improve conditions for U.S. veterans, including reforming the Department of Veterans Affairs, expanding access to healthcare, and increasing accountability within the VA system.
He pointed to the opening of 16 new veteran health clinics, streamlined benefit transfer procedures for survivors, and a rollback of diversity and inclusion initiatives to focus spending on core support programs. He also highlighted a 37% reduction in the VA benefits backlog, following a 24% increase under the previous administration.
In May, Trump signed an executive order to create the National Center for Warrior Independence, which will house up to 6,000 homeless veterans by 2028. He also enacted the One Big Beautiful Bill, which permanently extends the Trump Tax Cuts and eliminates Social Security taxes for most seniors — a move aimed at relieving financial pressure on veterans with fixed incomes.
“Our nation remains great because of those who have served honorably in uniform,” Trump stated. “Under my leadership, our nation will always uphold the legacy of our veterans by keeping America strong, proud, and free — and as president, I will always have their backs.”
Remembering World War I and the Origins of Veterans Day
Trump’s proclamation also reflected on the significance of November 11, 1918 — the day World War I ended. He recalled the sacrifices made by more than 320,000 American service members during that global conflict and the critical role the U.S. played in securing victory and shaping the modern world.
The statement referenced historic battles such as Verdun, the Meuse-Argonne Offensive, Belleau Wood, and Flanders Fields, crediting them as pivotal moments in the development of U.S. military power and battlefield innovation. Trump described the war as a turning point that demonstrated America’s unmatched strength and resolve.
“More than a century after the end of World War I, we honor the valiant service members whose victory sent a resounding message to the world: No tyranny can topple the strength of the American military, no adversary can withstand the spirit of the American people.”
A Call to Action for the Nation
As part of the annual proclamation, President Trump called on all Americans to reflect on the legacy of U.S. veterans through public ceremonies and private acts of gratitude. He encouraged federal, state, and local governments to display the U.S. flag and participate in patriotic observances within their communities.
The ceremony at Arlington, held under overcast skies, was attended by military leaders, veterans, and their families. It continued the longstanding tradition of presidents participating in Veterans Day commemorations at the hallowed grounds of Arlington National Cemetery.
As Trump seeks to strengthen his 2024 platform and distinguish himself in a politically divided climate, his Veterans Day message aimed to strike a tone of unity and patriotism, underscoring a commitment to military families and those who served.
Presidential Message on Victory Day
In a separate statement, Trump marked the 107th anniversary of the end of World War I by reflecting on the heroism of American forces in the “War to End All Wars.” He noted that U.S. entry into the war in 1917 helped tip the balance in favor of the Allies and secure a lasting peace.
“Today, we remember the sacrifice of every hero of freedom who shed his blood for the survival of our civilization,” Trump said. “We vow to never stop fighting for the sacred causes that sustain our Republic, our way of life, and our birthright of freedom.”
As America nears its 250th anniversary of independence, Trump’s message emphasized looking to the past for inspiration and leadership — and promised continued support for all who wore the uniform of the United States.
Key Themes:
- Honoring all veterans, past and present
- Emphasis on reforms in healthcare, housing, and benefits
- Reflection on historical military service and sacrifices
- Call to citizens and government to uphold veterans’ legacies
- Pledge to maintain a strong national defense and patriotic spirit
This Veterans Day, President Trump sought to reaffirm America’s enduring bond with those who’ve served — with gratitude, respect, and promises to do more.
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