Congressional leaders defended Gold Star parents Khizr and Ghazala Khan on Monday against public attacks that followed their appearance at the Democratic National Convention (DNC).
The Khans drew criticism after Khizr Khan gave a speech at the DNC in which he said that Donald Trump “consistently smears the character of Muslims” like their son.
U.S. Sen. John McCain (R-AZ) thanked the Khans for immigrating to America and added, “We’re a better country because of you.”
“Captain Khan’s death in Iraq, on June 8, 2004, was a shining example of the valor and bravery inculcated into our military,” McCain said. “When a suicide bomber accelerated his vehicle toward a facility with hundreds of American soldiers, Captain Khan ordered his subordinates away from the danger. Then he ran toward it. The suicide bomber, striking prematurely, claimed the life of Captain Khan — and Captain Khan, through his selfless action and sacrifice, saved the lives of hundreds of his brothers and sisters.”
McCain said that he “cannot emphasize enough” how much he disagrees with the sentiment that people like Khan should not be allowed into the U.S. or allowed to serve in the military.
House Speaker Paul Ryan (R-WI) said that America’s greatness is built on the principles of liberty and is preserved by the men and women who wear the uniform to defend it.
“As I have said on numerous occasions, a religious test for entering our country is not reflective of these fundamental values,” Ryan said. “I reject it. Many Muslim Americans have served valiantly in our military and made the ultimate sacrifice. Captain Khan was one such brave example. His sacrifice — and that of Khizr and Ghazala Khan — should always be honored. Period.”
U.S. Rep. Adam Kinzinger (R-IL), an Air Force veteran of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, said that nobody could truly understand the sacrifices that military families make.
“There’s no greater love than a man who lays down his life for his friends,” Kinzinger said. “As a military man myself, I have deep respect for the sacrifices made by anyone who is willing to defend the Constitution. Comments disparaging our service men and women, and their families, are deeply disturbing and wholly unpatriotic.”
U.S. Rep. Mac Thornberry (R-TX), the chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, said that he was “dismayed” by the attacks that Khizr and Ghazala Khan had endured after speaking about their sacrifice, as well as their son’s sacrifice.
“There is never enough honor we can show to the families of those whose loved ones have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country,” Thornberry said. “Service to our country is above politics. I believe that each of us are called every day to show our deepest respect and gratitude to all of those who protect our freedom and their families.”
U.S. Rep. Rodney Frelinghuysen (R-NJ), meanwhile, noted the diversity of America’s armed forces dating back to the Revolutionary War.
“Our men and women in uniform have represented all faiths since the Revolutionary War, and we owe a huge debt, especially to those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice, and we will forever honor the families of those who serve and have served,” Frelinghuysen said.