Recently, President Donald Trump stepped off Marine One at Joint Base Andrews and walked past two Marines who were saluting him. The moment was short, but many people noticed that he did not salute back.
The Marines stood straight and held their salutes as he walked by. Trump looked ahead and kept moving toward his motorcade. He did not raise his hand or make any sign of respect.
A short video was shared on X by @dexter_doggie. The caption read, “He didn’t salute the marines when he got off the helicopter.”
He didn’t salute the marines when he got off the helicopter. pic.twitter.com/vOcj62hHi6
— Dexter the Dog (@dexter_doggie) December 10, 2025
It didn’t take long before people online started reacting to it.
He definitely can’t lift his arm that high.
— Spice Spice Girl (@reasnottodateme) December 10, 2025
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He forgot…..called dementia
— Doc Holliday (@DocHolliday_Val) December 10, 2025
why does it take him so long to go down four stairs?
— EL DEMENTOR (@kalagnaw) December 10, 2025
What a patriot
— Me1 (@Me1_RizeClan) December 10, 2025
he hates military. only his white supremise private militia Jan 6 he pardoned and their groups!
— Hope (@HopeLaughLove) December 10, 2025
He doesn’t even know where he is.
— Wakanda_Rube (@WakandaRube) December 10, 2025
Those in the vicinity could hear him audibly muttering “suckers and losers” as he stumbled by.
— Colorado Texan (@jakegotbaked) December 10, 2025
For years, presidents have made a point to salute in return. Ronald Reagan began the habit in the 1980s, and many leaders continued it as a small way to say thank you to service members. It is a quick gesture, but many people expect the president to give it. When the president refuses, it stands out right away.
Trump has returned salutes before at many military events. He has done it at Navy ceremonies, Marine Corps anniversaries, and base visits. That is why some people found this moment strange.
Featured image via X screengrab