When six U.S. service members killed in Iraq were returned home, their families made a clear and deeply personal request: no media coverage of the dignified transfer.

But that request was not respected.

Despite the families’ wishes, images from the ceremony were later shared publicly by the White House. Even more troubling, a pro-Trump PAC used a photo of the president saluting a flag-draped coffin in a fundraising email, asking supporters for money tied to a “national security briefing” membership.

These were not ordinary images — they were moments of grief, sacrifice, and national mourning.

When asked about the fundraising email, President Trump said he believed it was appropriate.

For many families and Americans, this crosses a line.

Dignified transfers are meant to honor the fallen with respect and solemnity — not to be used in political messaging or fundraising efforts, especially against the explicit wishes of grieving families.

We call on Trump and his administration to take responsibility, apologise and commit to respecting families’ wishes, and ensure that no images of fallen service members are ever used for political or financial purposes again.

Sign this petition to stand for respect, dignity, and accountability for those who gave their lives.

Photo: Nathan Howard / REUTERS