Senator Ruben Gallego from Arizona is stepping in to challenge the Pentagon’s decision to provide military funeral honors for Ashli Babbitt. Babbitt was part of the mob that stormed the Capitol on January 6, 2021. Gallego plans to introduce legislation to stop this honor, emphasizing his duty as a veteran to protect the integrity of military recognition.
He expressed his concerns to CBS News, stating, “This honor is reserved for those who defend the Constitution, not for someone who attempted to overthrow the government.” He believes that honoring Babbitt would undermine the values of the military.
Gallego’s resolution points to Babbitt’s actions that day, especially her attempt to breach a restricted area, where a Capitol Police officer fatally shot her. He argues that these actions disqualify her for military honors, citing a legal provision that states such honors must not bring discredit to the military.
Historically, military funeral honors have been given to those who have served honorably. The Pentagon initially denied Babbitt’s family’s request for these honors, stating that her actions during the Capitol riot were contrary to the honor’s criteria.
Interestingly, a letter from the Pentagon mentioned that providing military honors to her would be inappropriate due to the circumstances surrounding her death. In contrast, organizations like Judicial Watch have advocated for her honors, referencing her prior service in the Air Force.
Babbitt’s mother has also spoken out against the ongoing legal actions against individuals involved in the January 6 riots and has demanded an investigation into her daughter’s death. This reflects a broader tension in American society regarding differing views on the events of that day.
As more Americans reflect on January 6, discussions about who truly deserves military honors continue. Gallego’s efforts to block these honors spark debates about loyalty, patriotism, and accountability. The topic remains sensitive and divisive in contemporary political discourse.
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Ruben Gallego
