Four years have passed since one of the darkest moments in recent American history—the Abbey Gate bombing in Kabul that claimed the lives of 13 brave U.S. service members and left many others wounded. On August 26, 2021, the world watched in horror as chaos consumed the disastrous withdrawal from Afghanistan. Thirteen young patriots—Marines, a Sailor, and a Soldier—gave their lives protecting others amid the collapse.

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This week, President Donald Trump proclaimed August 26, 2025, as a solemn day of commemoration for those fallen heroes. Surrounded by grieving Gold Star families, he declared that America must never forget their sacrifice nor allow such a betrayal of our troops and allies to occur again. He promised that their memory will live on forever, etched not only in history but in the conscience of a grateful nation.

The proclamation also underscored a painful truth: leadership decisions matter. The contrast between solemn remembrance and the shame of leaders who turned away—symbolized by President Biden glancing at his watch as flag-draped coffins returned home—will remain a scar in our national memory. Yet in honoring the 13, we are reminded that sacrifice and honor are stronger than failure and betrayal.

For Christians, days like this call us back to the eternal perspective. Jesus said, “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends” (John 15:13). The courage of these 13 men and women reflects that truth in the most profound way. Their sacrifice points us to the reality that freedom is never free.

As we remember the Abbey Gate heroes, we also lift up their families, who continue to carry the weight of grief and pride. We pray for God’s comfort to surround them and for His justice to prevail in our nation’s military and political leadership. May this day stir in all of us a renewed resolve—not only to honor the fallen, but to demand truth, accountability, and righteous leadership in America.

How are you praying about this proclamation? Share your prayers and scriptures below.

(Excerpted from the Daily Wire. Photo Credit: Kent Nishimura/Getty Images)