Trump brings high-profile guests to Army-Navy game; Secretary of Defense pick attends

Dec. 15, 2024, 7:30 p.m. Politics

At the annual Army-Navy football game held on Saturday, President-elect Donald Trump brought along a number of high-profile guests, including his pick for Secretary of Defense, General James Mattis. The game, which took place at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland, brought together two of the nation's oldest military academies for their long-standing rivalry.

Trump's attendance at the game marked a departure from tradition, as it is a custom for the sitting president to attend at least one Army-Navy game during their term. Despite not yet being inaugurated, Trump's appearance at the game highlighted his commitment to supporting the military and honoring the longstanding traditions of the Army-Navy rivalry.

In addition to General Mattis, Trump also brought along other notable guests, including former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani and former NFL player and Hall of Famer Roger Staubach. Their presence at the game added to the already electric atmosphere, with fans from both sides eager to catch a glimpse of the president-elect and his esteemed guests.

General Mattis, who has been nominated by Trump to lead the Department of Defense, received a warm welcome from the crowd as he sat alongside the president-elect. Known for his strong military background and no-nonsense approach, Mattis is widely regarded as a highly respected figure within the armed forces and is seen as a capable choice to lead the sprawling defense department.

The game itself was closely contested, with both teams putting up a spirited fight in front of a sell-out crowd. The Army Black Knights, who had not won the game since 2001, were eager to break Navy's 14-game winning streak. However, the Midshipmen of the Naval Academy ultimately emerged victorious, defeating Army 34-7.

Despite their loss, the Army team played with determination and passion, showcasing the resilience and spirit of the military academies. The game served as a reminder of the fierce rivalry between the two institutions, as well as the strong camaraderie and sportsmanship that exists between the Army and Navy.

President-elect Trump's presence at the game, along with his high-profile guests, underscored his commitment to the military and his appreciation for the sacrifices made by those who serve. By attending the Army-Navy game and bringing along General Mattis, Trump sent a clear message of support and solidarity with the armed forces, signaling his intent to prioritize national defense and security in his upcoming administration.

As the nation prepares for the transition of power in January, Trump's attendance at the Army-Navy game serves as a reminder of the enduring traditions and values that unite the country. The game, steeped in history and tradition, provided a fitting backdrop for the president-elect to showcase his respect for the armed forces and his dedication to upholding their legacy of service and sacrifice. With General Mattis by his side, Trump reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening the military and honoring the men and women who defend our nation.