Trump projected troops behind him in Fort Bragg to see the looks, beliefs: report

President Donald Trump took the podium at the Fort Bragg of North Carolina on Tuesday before rows of young soldiers in fatigue printed by camouflage that had been selected by their personal body and policy shape, according to the military news site.

The stage design reflected Trump’s obsession with appearances and popularity, but was very unusual for the military, which for a long time has sought to portray himself as indifferent to partisan policy.

Military.com reviewed the written orders that, he said, were sent in preparation for the event.

According to reports, an order said: “There are no fat soldiers.”

Via News

According to the reports, the troops were told that they could object to being placed in the stands behind Trump if their personal values ​​were in conflict with their policy.

Trump’s speech in Fort Bragg did not sound different from a campaign rally, with insults for political enemies such as the mayor of Los Angeles, Karen Bass, and the governor of California Gavin Newsom, both Democrats.

The reactions of the troops were similarly. They encouraged some of the president’s most inflammatory comments, such as when he characterized immigration as an “invasion.”

In another part of Fort Bragg, Military.com reported that Trump’s merchandise was on sale.

According to reports, an article, a false credit card, “White privilege card: triumphs above all.”

An unidentified commander told Military.com that the event was “shameful.”

“This has been a bad week for the army for anyone who worries that we are a neutral institution,” said the commander.

The Army is approaching the 250th anniversary of its foundation, which will culminate with a massive military parade on Saturday, June 14, Trump’s 79th birthday.

The Defense Department specifically prohibits active service soldiers participating in partisan political activities. A “rapid guide” on the rules for service members dated last year states that “all members of the Armed Forces should always avoid actions that could reasonably be perceived as implying the sponsorship of the DOD, the approval or support of partisan political activity.”

However, it does not seem that the soldiers will face any impact to participate in Trump’s speech this week.