President Donald Trump honored Corey Comperatore, a firefighter who died shielding his family during an assassination attempt on Trump, at the Republican National Convention’s final night.
Trump’s address included a heartfelt tribute to Comperatore, who was killed in Butler, Pennsylvania. Holding the firefighter’s helmet and jacket, Trump kissed the helmet and led the audience in a moment of silence to honor Comperatore’s bravery.
“Corey was a highly respected former fire chief,” Trump said. “He lost his life selflessly acting as a human shield to protect his family from flying bullets. He went right over the top of them and was hit. What a fine man he was.”
The attack occurred when Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, fired shots at Trump during a rally. Trump, who was looking at a chart, moved just in time to avoid a fatal shot, sustaining only a grazed ear. Comperatore, seated in the bleachers, was fatally struck while shielding his family. Two other attendees, David Dutch, 57, and James Copenhaver, 74, were also injured but are recovering.
Comperatore’s firefighting jacket, displayed on stage, had his name misspelled due to space limitations. This personal touch highlighted Trump’s respect for the fallen hero. Trump called for the nation to remember Comperatore’s sacrifice, describing him as “incredible” and a “hero.”
In the wake of the shooting, Trump launched a GoFundMe campaign for the victims’ families. Announcing at the RNC that over $6 million had been raised, Trump praised the generosity of supporters. “This support means so much to the families affected by this tragedy,” he said.
Comperatore leaves behind his wife and two daughters. Trump’s tribute deeply touched them and the RNC attendees, who responded with a standing ovation. The tribute underscored the risks first responders take and the ultimate sacrifices they sometimes make.
Trump’s recognition of Comperatore’s heroism during the convention highlighted the bravery and dedication of first responders. The moving tribute served as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who protect others, resonating strongly with the audience.
