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Gold Star Father’s Charges Dropped After State of the Union Incident
Washington, D.C., Attorney General Brian Schwalb has decided to drop charges against Steve Nikoui, a Gold Star father who interrupted President Joe Biden’s State of the Union address. Nikoui, the father of the late Lance Corporal Kareem Nikoui, was arrested for shouting “Abbey Gate” and “13 Marines” during Biden’s speech, referencing the location where his son and 12 other Marines were killed.
The tragic death of Nikoui’s son occurred during the chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan, where a terrorist suicide bomber claimed the lives of many service members. Nikoui’s emotional outburst during the speech captured national attention, highlighting the pain and frustration felt by families who have sacrificed their loved ones in service to the country.
Several House Republicans, including Issa and Rep. Mike McCaul (R-Texas), advocated for Nikoui following his arrest. It was not until Speaker Mike Johnson (R) intervened, as reported by Rep. Mast, that Schwalb decided to drop the charges. The incident underscored the ongoing struggle of Gold Star families to have their voices heard and concerns addressed by the government.
Fight for Recognition and Closure
Throughout the ordeal, Nikoui has been vocal about his desire for President Biden to honor the fallen Marines with a Rose Garden ceremony. He has also been engaged in a battle with the administration to retrieve his son’s belongings, including vital SIM cards that may shed light on the events of that tragic day.
The names of the thirteen Marines who lost their lives in the attack are as follows:
- Sgt. Johanny Rosario Pichardo, 25
- Sgt. Nicole L. Gee, 23
- Staff Sgt. Darin T. Hoover, 31
- Cpl. Hunter Lopez, 22
- Cpl. Daegan W. Page, 23
- Cpl. Humberto A. Sanchez, 22
- Lance Cpl. David L. Espinoza, 20
- Lance Cpl. Jared M. Schmitz, 20
- Lance Cpl. Rylee J. McCollum, 20
- Lance Cpl. Dylan R. Merola, 20
- Lance Cpl. Kareem M. Nikoui, 20
- Navy Corpsman Maxton W. Soviak, 22
- Staff Sgt. Ryan C. Knauss, 23
The resolution of the charges against Nikoui signifies a small victory for the Gold Star father and his quest for justice and recognition. It also sheds light on the challenges faced by families of fallen service members in navigating the aftermath of such heartbreaking losses.
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