January 1, Trump Assigns Triumphal Arch National Security Role

Wyatt’s Take

• President Trump puts American safety first by giving the planned Triumphal Arch a national security mission
• The military asked for the change, and the president listened
• Another promise kept to protect the country and honor its history

President Donald Trump announced Sunday that the long-planned Triumphal Arch project will now serve a vital national security purpose.

Though construction has not yet started, the decision came after direct requests from the United States Military.

We are pleased to announce that after a very long wait (over 125 years!), we are preparing to start, over the next two-week period, the excavation work necessary for the Great Triumphal Arch and Military Observation Deck, at Memorial Circle on Columbia Island between the Lincoln Memorial and Arlington National Cemetery. This will be one of the Great Pieces of American Architecture, honoring the history and significance of Arlington Cemetery and befitting the most powerful Capital in the World.

— Secretary Doug Burgum (@SecretaryBurgum) September 3, 2026

“At the strong request of the United States Military, and for National Security purposes, I have agreed to convert the magnificent Triumphal Arch, planned since the Civil War Era many years ago, into a key national security asset,” Trump stated.

The move keeps the original vision of the project while adding a practical layer of protection for the country.

Supporters say the change shows the president’s commitment to both American history and modern defense needs.

Critics from the left are already complaining about the announcement, but the president made clear the military’s request came first.

Wyatt Matters

Heartland families understand that strong borders and secure symbols matter. When leaders honor history and keep the country safe at the same time, it shows respect for the values that built this nation.