President Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris have failed to reach out to Gold Star families who lost loved ones in the deadly bombing at Abbey Gate during the chaotic Afghanistan withdrawal three years ago. This neglect has left Gold Star families feeling overlooked and abandoned by the current administration.
### A Heartbreaking Loss
The suicide bombing by a member of ISIS-K at the Abbey Gate entrance of Hamid Karzai International Airport claimed the lives of 13 U.S. service members, including 11 Marines, one Navy sailor, and one Army soldier. Additionally, 18 other U.S. service members were wounded, and over 150 civilians lost their lives in the attack.
Former President Trump took the initiative to hold a wreath-laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery to honor the fallen servicemembers, while Biden and Harris were noticeably absent from any similar events on the anniversary of this tragic incident.
### Gold Star Families Speak Out
In a call with GOP Vice Presidential nominee Sen. JD Vance, Gold Star families expressed their disappointment with the lack of acknowledgment from the current administration. Mark Schmitz, a Gold Star father who lost his son Jared Schmitz in the attack, highlighted the absence of Biden and Harris, stating that it reflects a pattern of avoidance and disregard.
### Support from Former President Trump
Gold Star Aunt Cheryl Juels, whose niece Sgt. Nicole Ghee was among those killed in the bombing, emphasized the consistent support they have received from former President Trump. Juels praised Trump for reaching out to the families and honoring the fallen servicemembers, contrasting this with the absence of interaction from Biden and Harris.
### Call for Change
Juels urged for Trump’s return to office, crediting him with keeping the men and women in uniform safe during his administration. She emphasized the need for strong leadership to protect those serving the country and expressed unwavering support for Trump’s potential return to office.
### Additional Insights
The article fails to mention the emotional toll it takes on Gold Star families to not receive acknowledgment or support from their government in times of grief. The lack of recognition can deepen their sense of loss and isolation. Additionally, highlighting the impact of political leadership on military families beyond ceremonial events could provide a broader perspective on the ongoing challenges they face.
