At the Republican National Convention, emotions ran high as Christy Shamblin, mother-in-law to fallen Roseville Marine Sgt. Nicole Gee, spoke about the impact of her loss and the support she received from former President Donald Trump. "While Joe Biden has refused to recognize their sacrifice, Donald Trump spent six hours at Bedminster with us," Shamblin said, as reported by ABC10. The RNC's third day focused on national security, bringing to the stage veterans and Gold Star families who criticized President Biden's handling of the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan.
The withdrawal deal from Afghanistan, originally negotiated by the Trump administration, has become a contentious topic, with Republicans claiming Biden's move to remove U.S. soldiers was inherently political. Despite these claims, it was the Trump administration that laid down the pathway for withdrawal in February 2020. The agreement aimed to have American troops out by May 2021. However, Trump left office before being able to see through a plan for the actual withdrawal of forces. Shamblin used her platform to publicly thank Trump, saying, "He allowed us to remember our heroes. Donald Trump knew all of our children's' names, and he spoke to us in a way that made us feel understood," according to ABC10.
On the same day, insight into Sgt. Gee's dedication and service was highlighted by her aunt, Cheryl Juels. Gee, who was killed during her deployment in Kabul at age 23, was remembered for her love for her job and willingness to take risks for her country. In a statement obtained by Fox News Digital, Juels memorialized Gee's service, saying, "You know, freedom isn't free because a lot of them don't make it home. And they know that when they sign up, they're willing to take that risk so that people can live in a country like ours."
Criticism of how the Biden administration handled the exit strategy echoes across party lines. Notably, former Biden supporters like former New Hampshire House Speaker Steve Shurtleff have cited the flawed exit as a reason he wants Biden to step aside. While the Republican Convention served to rally its base around these sentiments, the RNC also served to remember the fallen, with family members naming each of the 13 slain service members, prompting the crowd to echo each name loudly back to them. "Never forget!" and "U.S.A.!" chants filled the hall as Trump and all present stood, as recounted by ABC10.
The enduring impact of Gee's service and her family's loss aims to continue influencing the community through the Nicole M. Gee Memorial Foundation, as stated by Juels in the interview with Fox News Digital. The foundation's focus on supporting military families, along with health and wellness outreach, embodies Gee's spirit of dedication and fitness, having even achieved the rank of black belt in jiu-jitsu aboard a Navy ship. For Juels and those who remember, the Fourth of July is a stark reminder that the freedom cherished by Americans is deeply rooted in the sacrifice of those like Sgt. Gee, who had an unwavering commitment to service and excellence.
