Emotional Tribute at RNC: Families of Fallen Heroes Criticize Biden

Emotions ran high at the Republican National Convention as relatives of the 13 American service members killed during the chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan took the stage. They criticized President Joe Biden for not publicly naming their loved ones, with one family member naming each of the deceased, followed by the crowd echoing each name.

“Joe Biden has refused to recognize their sacrifice,” Christy Shamblin, Marine Sgt. Nicole Gee’s mother-in-law, told the crowd. “Donald Trump knew all of our children's names. He knew all of their stories.” Chants of “Never forget!” and “U.S.A.!” reverberated as Trump and the convention attendees stood in unity.

Adrienne Watson, a National Security Council spokesperson, defended Biden, citing his presence at the dignified transfer of the service members’ remains and his continuous expression of gratitude and honor for their ultimate sacrifice.

This emotional display served as a counter to Biden's critique of Trump regarding veterans' respect. Biden often references claims that Trump disparaged fallen soldiers, which Trump denies. The tragic Kabul airport suicide bombing in August 2021 further intensified this issue, placing affected families in the political spotlight.

Republicans argue that Biden's Afghanistan withdrawal was politically motivated, although Trump's administration had originally signed the agreement for U.S. troop withdrawal in February 2020. Plans for Taliban leaders to sign an agreement at Camp David were shelved after a Taliban attack.

The botched withdrawal has led former Biden supporters, like ex-New Hampshire House Speaker Steve Shurtleff, to call for Biden to step aside.

(With inputs from agencies.)