During the State of the Union address last Thursday, a Gold Star father, Steve Nikoui, whose son was one of the Marines killed in the Abbey Gate bombing in Afghanistan, expressed his frustration with President Joe Biden's handling of the chaotic withdrawal. Nikoui was later arrested and charged with disturbing public peace, sparking controversy.
In an exclusive interview, Nikoui thanked Congressman Daryl Issa and a group of congressmen known as the 'Four Horsemen' for their support in seeking answers regarding the evacuation debacle. He highlighted the upcoming congressional appearance of Generals McKenzie and Miley, whom he holds responsible for the flawed evacuation.
Nikoui also shared the tragic loss of his other son, Dakota James Halvorson, who took his life near his brother's grave. He emphasized the need for closure and urged Americans, regardless of political affiliation, to demand accountability for the events in Afghanistan.
Congressman Issa pledged to assist Nikoui in addressing the legal charges against him, citing unequal treatment compared to past incidents. He commended Nikoui's dedication to honoring fallen service members and ensuring their sacrifices were not in vain.
Nikoui clarified his outburst during the State of the Union, stating that he was praying for recognition of the fallen soldiers. He expressed relief that his son's name was finally mentioned in the chamber, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging the sacrifices made by military personnel.
The emotional interview underscored the pain and resilience of Gold Star families, calling for a unified effort to prevent similar tragedies in the future. Viewers were moved by Nikoui's plea for remembrance and justice, with Congressman Issa vowing to continue supporting the cause.
