A Gold Star father has publicly condemned former White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki, accusing her of lying about President Joe Biden checking his watch during a solemn ceremony. The father, whose son was one of the 13 U.S. service members killed in Afghanistan in August 2021, expressed his outrage in a recent interview.
The controversy began when Psaki, in her role as press secretary, denied claims that President Biden had checked his watch multiple times during the dignified transfer ceremony at Dover Air Force Base. The ceremony was held to honor the fallen service members who died in a Kabul airport bombing.
During the interview, the grieving father described Psaki’s denial as “vile” and “shameless,” asserting that it added insult to the pain already felt by the families of the deceased. He insisted that Biden’s actions during the ceremony were disrespectful and that Psaki’s statements only exacerbated the hurt.
Eyewitnesses, including several family members of the fallen soldiers, have corroborated the father’s account, stating that they clearly saw the president looking at his watch multiple times during the event. These observations were captured in photographs and videos that circulated widely on social media, fueling further controversy.
Psaki, who left her position as press secretary in May 2022, has faced significant backlash over her comments. Critics argue that her denial was an attempt to downplay the president’s actions and shield him from criticism. Supporters of Psaki, however, contend that her role was to defend the administration and that her statements were based on information available at the time.
The incident has remained a point of contention, with the Gold Star families seeking acknowledgment and an apology from the administration. The father emphasized that the focus should be on honoring the memory of the fallen service members and ensuring their sacrifice is not overshadowed by political disputes.
President Biden, who has repeatedly expressed his condolences and respect for the families of the fallen, has not directly addressed the watch-checking controversy. His administration continues to navigate the complex aftermath of the Afghanistan withdrawal, which has been a subject of intense scrutiny and debate.
As the nation remembers the lives lost in Afghanistan, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the emotional and political challenges faced by those in public office. The call for transparency and accountability from the families of the fallen highlights the ongoing impact of the tragedy and the need for sensitive and respectful communication from leaders.