Gold Star Fathers Speak Out Against Harris's Remarks

In a recent interview, Gold Star fathers whose sons perished in the Kabul airport bombing voiced their deep frustration towards Vice President Kamala Harris. Darren Hoover, father of Staff Sergeant Taylor Hoover, criticized Harris for what they perceive as an attempt to manipulate their grief for political gain. Mark Schmidt, father of Lance Corporal Jared Schmidt, echoed Hoover's sentiments, emphasizing their desire for respect and advocacy from the current administration. Both fathers expressed their discontent with the Biden administration's lack of engagement and acknowledgement, stating that unsolicited responses or invitations to honor their sons have been ignored for the past three years. They condemned the disparagement of their memories, particularly in light of Harris's recent commentary following the Arlington National Cemetery ceremony where former President Trump was present to honor the fallen. The fathers emphasized the emotional toll and need for political leaders to prioritize honoring and remembering their sacrifices instead of focusing on political agendas. With ongoing pleas for dialogue and recognition falling on deaf ears, they are left feeling isolated and disrespected. The poignant anguish experienced by these fathers underscores a broader narrative regarding how loss is politicized and the dire need for empathy from leadership in times of tragedy.