As Trump began his speech at the rally, he addressed the horrific events that unfolded on July 13.
“All who have visited this hallowed place will remember what happened here and they will know of the character and courage that many American patriots showed,” Trump said, expressing his gratitude to the Secret Service agents who shielded him when the shots rang out.
Trump then praised Comperatore’s courage as a father, noting how he protected his daughters and wife during the chaos. At 6:11 PM—the exact time the shooting began—Trump led the audience in a moment of silence in memory of Comperatore. As the crowd stood in silence, bells tolled, followed by a live performance of Ave Maria.
Throughout the rally, Comperatore’s firefighter uniform was placed at the exact spot where he had stood during the event in July, serving as a solemn tribute to his sacrifice.
“In the face of murderous hate, Corey answered with the most selfless kind of love,” Trump said, highlighting the presence of Comperatore’s daughters, wife, and sisters at the rally.
“To Helene [Comperatore] and the entire family, I can only begin to imagine the depths of your grief but I want you to know that just like you, we will carry his memory in our hearts for as long as we live,” Trump added in a heartfelt conclusion.
