Trump: They fought not cuz they hate what is in front of them, but cuz they love what is behind them

U.S. President Donald Trump on Monday delivered an emotional Memorial Day address at Arlington National Cemetery, paying tribute to fallen American troops and praising generations of military service members who died defending the United States.

Speaking before Gold Star families, veterans and top government officials, Trump reflected on the sacrifices made by soldiers throughout American history, from the Revolutionary War to recent conflicts in the Middle East.

During the ceremony, the president quoted a line honouring the motivation of American troops in combat.

“They fought not because they hate what's in front of them, but because they love what's behind them,” Trump said.

The remark drew applause from attendees gathered at the cemetery, where thousands of fallen service members are buried.

Trump’s speech formed part of a wider Memorial Day observance attended by Vice President JD Vance, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and senior military leaders.

The president described the United States military as a force that has defended liberty across the world for nearly 250 years.

“America has always stood as a great and moral cause,” Trump told the audience.

He recounted stories of soldiers who fought in major conflicts including World War II, Korea, Vietnam and Afghanistan, while recognising military families who lost loved ones in service.

Trump also highlighted the role of Arlington National Cemetery as a symbol of national sacrifice and unity.

“Before we hail the founding, we honor the fallen. Before we celebrate the triumph, we pay the tribute,” he said.

The ceremony included prayers, military honours and musical performances by Craig Morgan alongside the United States Army Band.

Vice President Vance also addressed the gathering, describing Memorial Day as one of the most solemn days on the American calendar.

“Today is for those veterans who put on the uniform, who went overseas, and who never came home,” Vance said.

Hegseth, a combat veteran, praised fallen troops for answering the nation’s call during times of war.

“These graves are more than names and dates with a dash in between. Each grave marker is a story,” he said.

The Memorial Day observance concluded with the playing of taps and a final benediction as attendees stood in silence to remember America’s war dead.