Nov 27, 2025
WASHINGTON — As Americans gather this Thanksgiving, we are reminded once more of the sobering sacrifices that we ask our brave men and women in uniform to make. Today, two members of the West Virginia National Guard were on patrol in Washington, D.C., when they were shot in what authorities are calling a “targeted shooting.”
The soldiers are reportedly in critical condition tonight. We are praying for them and their families. We also think of the innocent bystanders who were in our nation’s capital, just trying to enjoy the day when unspeakable violence sent them running for cover. Violence like this has no place in America and we know the perpetrator will face justice for this heinous act.
We are reminded as a nation that service above self is why brave Americans volunteer to wear the uniform. These brave soldiers were called away from their families this Thanksgiving and ready to stand up to whatever dangers may await them.
While many Americans are divided over the role our National Guard plays in military operations both at home and abroad, make no mistake that the brave Americans who volunteer for service understand that their job is to carry out their mission with honor, and the VFW will continue to muster our resources to support their selfless service.
The soldiers who were shot today fulfilled the most serious obligation in their oath of service, and tonight we honor their service and hope for their full recovery.
As we gather tomorrow to give thanks, let us renew our commitment to those who volunteer to wear the uniform regardless of our personal feelings on the missions to which they have been assigned. As Americans, it is our responsibility to ensure that all who are called to duty may return safely to their loved ones and the communities they have pledged to serve.