Governor Cox and Former President Trump visit Arlington National Cemetery

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ARLINGTON, VA — Utah’s Governor Spencer Cox was joined by former President Donald Trump at Arlington National Cemetery today. The two joined family members of Staff Sergeant Darin Taylor Hoover to honor him and the other victims of the Abbey Gate attack three years ago.

“I’m grateful for the Hoover family’s invitation to honor the sacrifice of Staff Sgt. Taylor Hoover in such a special place,” Cox wrote on X.

The attack that occurred outside Kabul airport on August 26, 2021 killed 13 American service members and nearly 200 Afghan bystanders. For many, it was verified proof of a botched withdrawal from Afghanistan. For all, it was a tragedy.

During the visit, Trump laid wreaths in honor of the victims. He and Governor Cox paid their respects at the graveside and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

“I am grateful today, and every day, for those who serve and defend our freedoms at home and abroad,” Cox said.

Cox thanked the former president for attending the service. In keeping with his slogan of “disagree better”, he also reached out to the current president with an invitation.

According to Deseret News, Cox had invited President Joe Biden to join him at Arlington National Cemetery. He also offered to arrange a meeting between Biden and the family of Sgt. Hoover.

“I realize a meeting would be very uncomfortable and there is nothing that can reverse the mistakes and tragedy of that day,” Cox wrote. “But accepting responsibility is part of the mantle of leadership and can accelerate the healing of those who have lost their precious loved ones.”

President Biden did not attend the memorial, but did release an official statement.

“These 13 Americans—and the many more that were wounded—were patriots in the highest sense,” the statement read.

To honor their memory, the names of the 13 service members are given below:

Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Darin T. Hoover

Marine Corps Sgt. Johanny Rosario Pichardo

Marine Corps Sgt. Nicole L. Gee

Marine Corps Cpl. Hunter Lopez

Marine Corps Cpl. Daegan W. Page

Marine Corps Cpl. Humberto A. Sanchez

Marine Corps Lance Cpl. David L. Espinoza

Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Jared M. Schmitz

Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Rylee J. McCollum

Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Dylan R. Merola

Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Kareem M. Nikoui

Navy Petty Officer Third Class Maxton W. Soviak

Army Staff Sgt. Ryan C. Knauss