The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) is demanding that President Trump apologize for downplaying the seriousness of traumatic brain injuries (TBI) suffered by 34 U.S. service members in Iran's missile attacks following the Trump-ordered U.S. assassination of a top Iranian general.
During the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland Trump was asked to explain the discrepancy between his claim that no US military personnel were injured in the January 8 attack on the Al-Asad airbase in Iraq and reports that troops were being treated for injuries resulting from the attack.
"No, I heard they had headaches, and a couple of other things, but I would say, and I can report, it's not very serious" Trump told reporters, adding that compared to soldiers losing limbs in war, traumatic brain injuries are small potatoes.
While the Defense and Veterans Brain Injury Center says most TBI injuries are considered mild (concussions), they can have long-term effects on cognition.
"The VFW expects an apology from the President to our service men and women for his misguided remarks," William "Doc" Schmitz, VFW National Commander, said Friday, following the Pentagon's announcement that 34 US service members have been diagnosed with TBIs from the January 8 Iranian attack.
"And, we ask that he and the White House join with us in our efforts to educate Americans of the dangers TBI has on these heroes as they protect our great nation in these trying times. Our warriors require our full support more than ever in this challenging environment," Schmitz declared.
According to the Pentagon, 17 of the 34 who were injured have returned to duty in Iraq, but nine are still being treated in Germany while eight have been sent to the U.S. for additional treatment.
Apparently Mr. Macho Man, with his need to bluster and brag about America's might and invisibility in the face of retaliation for the killing of Gen. Qasem Soleimani, felt it necessary to minimize the injuries suffered by U.S. troops when Iran's missiles exploded.
In doing so, he disrespected the men and women in uniform who bravely defend our nation, unlike Trump himself, who weaseled out of the draft with bone spur claims, and would run for the hills if ever faced with incoming fire.
Veterans should remember this come the election of November 3, 2020, assuming Trump is still on the ballot.