President Trump Reaches Out to Families of Fallen Heroes

President Trump Reaches Out to Families of Fallen Heroes

3 minute read
Published: 7/19/2024

Donald Trump called Helen Comperatore, widow of firefighter Corey Comperatore, to offer condolences after Corey was killed shielding his family during an assassination attempt on Trump at a Butler, Pennsylvania rally.

The tragic death of Corey Comperatore, a former fire chief who heroically shielded his family during a failed assassination attempt on Donald Trump, has left the Butler, Pennsylvania community in mourning and raised serious questions about security at political events. In the aftermath, Trump personally reached out to offer condolences to Helen Comperatore, reflecting the incident's profound impact on both personal and national levels.

Corey Comperatore, a longtime member and former fire chief of the Buffalo Township Volunteer Fire Company, was attending Trump's rally with his family when the incident occurred. Acting with unparalleled bravery, he shielded his loved ones from the sudden gunfire, ultimately sacrificing his life in an attempt that took all of Butler, Pennsylvania, by surprise.

During the chaos, Comperatore was struck by a sniper's bullet. Eyewitnesses recalled hearing his courageous final words, 'get down!' as he ushered his family to the ground, preventing what could have been a much greater tragedy. Unfortunately, despite his heroic efforts, Corey succumbed to his wounds, leaving a deep void in the community and his family.

The sniper, identified as Thomas Matthew Crooks, caused further injuries to two other rally attendees before being neutralized by Secret Service agents. Crooks did not survive the encounter, negating any immediate threat but leaving behind a scene filled with sorrow and chaos.

In the wake of her husband's death, Helen Comperatore took to Facebook to share her experience of receiving a call from Donald Trump. According to Helen, Trump was 'very kind' and expressed his intention to continue offering support to her in the days and weeks to come. This gesture was deeply appreciated by Helen, who had explicitly refused communication with President Biden, noting that her husband's staunch Republican beliefs would align more closely with Trump.

Helen spoke fondly of Corey, hailing him as a hero who acted selflessly in the face of danger. 'He was a dedicated husband and father, always putting his family first,' she shared on her social media account. This characterization resonated with many in the community, reflecting the high regard in which he was held both personally and professionally.

The bullet that struck Corey during the attack also grazed President Trump's ear, an incident that highlighted the ever-present risks faced by political figures and those attending such events. The incident has spurred a dialogue on the imperative need to review and potentially overhaul security protocols at public political gatherings to prevent future tragedies.

President Trump's outreach was not an isolated gesture; his call to Helen Comperatore emphasized the broader implications of the attack and highlighted the personal grief faced by the families of the fallen heroes. Many in the Butler, Pennsylvania community have since come together to offer support to the Comperatore family, keeping the memory of Corey's bravery alive.

The two other rally-goers who were injured during the shooting have not been named, but reports indicate that they are recovering well from their injuries. The Secret Service and local law enforcement agencies have since been working diligently to piece together the sequence of events leading up to the assassination attempt, aiming to safeguard future rallies and public appearances more effectively.

In the days following the tragedy, a memorial service for Corey Comperatore was held, drawing attendees from across the community and the wider firefighting fraternity. The service was a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by first responders and the critical roles they play not only in their professional capacities but also as protectors in moments of unforeseen danger.

Corey Comperatore's legacy as a firefighter and a devoted family man will continue to be honored by those who knew him best. His valor during the rally incident serves as a reminder of the dedication and bravery exhibited by first responders.