NOTE: VIDEO AT THE END OF THE ARTICLE.
President Trump reflects on survival, faith, and America’s future in stirring message to the nation.
On the solemn one-year anniversary of the assassination attempt that nearly claimed his life, President Donald Trump released a powerful and emotional video on Sunday commemorating the July 13, 2024, shooting in Butler, Pennsylvania.
The 91-second tribute, shared across Trump’s social media platforms, traces his journey from business titan to political icon, building up to the unforgettable moment when, bloodied from a gunshot to the ear, he stood tall and raised a defiant fist in the air. That image quickly became a symbol of survival, strength, and American resolve.
The montage, described as a tribute to Trump’s “mythical story,” features key moments from his life, speeches, and presidency—including audio from his 2017 Liberty University Commencement address:
“What will future Americans say we did in our brief time here on Earth? It will be defined by your vision, your perseverance, and your grit.”
It also includes stirring lines from his speech at the 2024 Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, delivered just days after the attempt on his life:
“We are Americans. Ambition is our heritage. Greatness is our birthright.”
The July 13, 2024, rally in Butler ended in tragedy when a gunman opened fire from a rooftop, killing rallygoer Corey Comperatore and injuring two others. Trump was wounded, but narrowly survived. In the aftermath, many of his supporters, including religious leaders and RNC attendees, credited divine intervention for sparing his life.
Detroit Pastor Lorenzo Sewell told Breitbart News that he had prayed for Trump in the weeks leading up to the rally.
“We saw the hand of the good Lord protect him,” Sewell said. “Prayer is preventative and proactive—and God answered.”
Lona Heins, a Tennessee RNC delegate, echoed that belief:
“If he had turned his head just a tiny bit, we’d be planning something completely different today. Evil had a plan, but God’s plan is bigger.”
In public remarks, Trump himself has spoken openly about the moment he believes divine protection intervened. He explained that he had turned his head to glance at an immigration chart when the bullet struck—altering its path just enough to avoid a fatal impact.
“I said, ‘Wow. What was that? What was that?’” Trump recalled. “You never know—but God did that. It had to be.”
He also admitted that the experience had a profound personal impact.
“Honestly, it changed something in me,” he said, alluding to a deepened sense of purpose and faith.
The video ends with a bold message:
“One year ago today, an assassin opened fire on President Donald J. Trump in Butler, Pennsylvania. The bullet hit—but by the grace of God, he stood up. Bloodied. Unbowed. And he fought harder. July 13th is a reminder: We fight, we win, AND WE NEVER SURRENDER.”
As the 2024 campaign trail fades into history and the 2028 race begins to take shape, Trump’s survival story remains a defining chapter in his legacy—and for many Americans, a moment of national resilience.
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Sarah Mitchell is a bestselling novelist recognized for her insightful and emotionally resonant stories that explore the complexities of human relationships. Originally from Denver, Colorado, Sarah grew up in a family of teachers who nurtured her curiosity and love for storytelling. She studied psychology at Stanford University, where she became fascinated by the intricacies of human behavior—an interest that would later shape her writing career. Sarah’s novels are praised for their nuanced characters, intricate plots, and ability to capture the subtle tensions that define love, friendship, and family ties. Her breakthrough novel, The Spaces Between Us, became an instant bestseller, lauded for its honest portrayal of strained family relationships and the fragile bonds that hold people together. Since then, she has published several works that continue to captivate audiences around the world. Outside of her writing career, Sarah is passionate about mental health advocacy and often partners with organizations to promote awareness and support for those struggling with emotional well-being. Her personal life is quieter—she enjoys hiking in the Colorado mountains, practicing yoga, and spending time with close friends. With each new book, Sarah Mitchell cements her reputation as a writer who illuminates the beauty and struggles of human connection.
