Hegseth Represents Trump at Ceremony for US Soldiers' Remains in Delaware

President Donald Trump did not attend the dignified transfer ceremony for four U.S. soldiers who died during a training exercise in Lithuania, opting instead to remain in Florida for a golf tournament and a fundraising dinner at Mar-a-Lago. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth represented the administration at the ceremony in Delaware, which was attended by several Democratic senators. Critics, including veterans, expressed disappointment over Trump's absence, citing it as disrespectful to the fallen servicemen. The soldiers, part of the 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, drowned when their vehicle became submerged in a peat bog during training. The families of the soldiers requested privacy, leading to restrictions on media presence at the ceremony. The incident sparked discussions about the appropriateness of presidential attendance at such solemn events, especially in light of past criticisms of other leaders.