On Christmas Eve, US President Donald Trump expressed his gratitude towards the American military personnel and their families for their unwavering support to the government’s strategic initiatives, which he described as “incredible”. He acknowledged that their efforts have made America “stronger and more prosperous than ever before”.
President Trump stated that he would continue to support the military personnel, reiterating that he had issued a tax-free “special warrior dividend” of $1,776 to each individual. Additionally, he mentioned that last week he had signed off on a pay raise for all military personnel.
In his capacity as Commander-in-Chief, President Trump mentioned that most military personnel should have received the $1,776 “special warrior dividend”. He emphasized that this bonus is tax-free and had been distributed before Christmas.
He stated, “This is tax-free. You don’t have to give half of it back to the government 15 minutes after receiving it, you don’t have to give back any money.”
President Trump also explained that the original amount for the bonus was $1,775, but he decided to increase it by $1 to make it $1,776. The year 1776 holds historical significance as the year when the United States declared independence.
Furthermore, President Trump highlighted that he had signed a comprehensive 3.8% pay raise last week, applicable to Army, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, Space Force, and Marine Corps personnel. He mentioned that the US was benefiting from billions of dollars in tariffs, which were contributing to making the country stronger, wealthier, and more secure, with the military personnel being beneficiaries of these funds.
President Trump mentioned that during the Christmas Eve event, six units from various branches of the military participated via video link.
US Army:
President Trump acknowledged the exceptional work of the US Army’s 2nd Brigade Combat Team from Iraq, which is under the 34th Infantry Division. He specifically thanked Colonel Eric Sultz, the brigade commander, and all personnel for their outstanding efforts in “crushing ISIS terrorists”.
When discussing counterterrorism operations, President Trump said, “You can’t show mercy because they don’t show mercy to us.”
US Navy:
President Trump commended the personnel aboard the USS Gerald R. Ford in the Caribbean Sea for their dedication to thwarting drug trafficking in the region, leading to a 96% reduction in maritime drug smuggling.
US Marine Corps:
President Trump extended his appreciation to the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit in the Philippines for their assistance in responding to recent catastrophic typhoons. He praised the unit as a symbol of unyielding American strength in the Pacific region.
US Air Force:
President Trump thanked the Air Force for supporting anti-drug operations in the Caribbean Sea and specifically mentioned the six expeditionary air refueling squadron deployed in the US Virgin Islands. He expressed gratitude for their outstanding work and reassured them that they would soon return home despite being away for a while.
US Space Force:
President Trump expressed his deep emotional attachment and high regard for the Space Force, as he was the one who established the branch. He commended the Space Force for achieving significant success in a short period, asserting America’s leadership in outer space ahead of China and Russia. He singled out the 42nd Electromagnetic Warfare Combat Detachment, conducting advanced defense operations at an undisclosed location.
President Trump stated that he had always believed that establishing the Space Force would be “one of the most important things” he has done.
US Coast Guard:
President Trump thanked Coast Guard members for their involvement in combating drug operations. He specifically mentioned the crew of the patrol cutter Glen Harris, enforcing drug interdiction near the coast of Bahrain and facilitating trade flow while deterring “naroterrorists”.
President Trump extended Christmas greetings to all military personnel and their families. He expressed his delight in having First Lady Melania Trump present, citing her as an inspiration to many and beloved by all.
The First Lady also addressed the military personnel, thanking them for their service and sacrifices.
“Thank you for your service, please stay safe. I wish you and your families a Merry Christmas. I believe they are all missing you at home, but they are rooting for you and are proud of you,” Melania Trump said. “This nation is proud of you, and I wish you a Merry Christmas and a happy and healthy New Year.”