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President Donald Trump took the podium at North Carolina’s Fort Bragg on Tuesday before rows of young soldiers in camo-printed fatigues who had been selected for their body shape and personal politics, according to the news site Military.com.
The bit of stage design reflected Trump’s obsession with appearances and popularity, but it was highly unusual for the military, which has long sought to portray itself as indifferent to partisan politics.
Military.com reviewed written orders it said were sent out in preparation for the event.
One order reportedly read, “No fat soldiers.”
via Associated Press
The troops were reportedly told they could object to being placed in the stands behind Trump if their personal values were in conflict with his politics.
Trump’s speech at Fort Bragg sounded no different from a campaign rally, featuring insults for political foes like Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass and California Gov. Gavin Newsom, both Democrats.
The troops’ reactions were similarly striking. They cheered some of the president’s most inflammatory remarks, such as when he characterized immigration as an “invasion.”
Elsewhere at Fort Bragg, Military.com reported that Trump campaign merchandise was for sale.
One item, a fake credit card, reportedly read, “White Privilege Card: Trumps Everything.”
An unnamed commander told Military.com the event was “shameful.”
“This has been a bad week for the Army for anyone who cares about us being a neutral institution,” the commander said.
The Army is nearing the 250th anniversary of its founding, which will culminate with a massive military parade on Saturday, June 14 — coincidentally, Trump’s 79th birthday.
The Department of Defense specifically prohibits active-duty soldiers from engaging in partisan political activity. A “quick guide” on the rules for service members dated last year states that “all members of the Armed Forces should always avoid actions that could reasonably be perceived as implying DoD sponsorship, approval or endorsement of partisan political activity.”
It does not appear, however, that the soldiers will face any repercussions for engaging in Trump’s speech this week.
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