FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 5, 2026
Veterans for America First National Press Secretary Christi Tasker Testifies Before National Capital Planning Commission in Support of Trump's Triumphal Arch
VFAF Presents Veterans' Letters Supporting Monument Honoring America's Military Heroes, Fallen Service Members, and 250 Years of American History
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Veterans for America First (VFAF) National Press Secretary Christi Tasker delivered public testimony on behalf of the national veterans organization during the November 5, 2026, National Capital Planning Commission (NCPC) meeting concerning the proposed Triumphal Arch, widely referred to in the media as "Trump's Arch."
The commission's lengthy meeting, which included more than nine hours of proceedings and 131 public comments, addressed the proposed monument and its significance to the nation's capital. The meeting also experienced a technical disruption before proceedings resumed.
Tasker, a professional designer who frequently works with architects and a descendant of American Revolutionary patriots, spoke in support of President Donald Trump's vision for a monumental arch near Arlington National Cemetery. Her testimony emphasized the importance of honoring American military service, preserving national history, and creating a lasting symbol of gratitude for future generations.
"I serve as National Press Secretary for Veterans for America First. Today, I speak on behalf of thousands of grassroots veterans asking why the arch has not already been built," Tasker stated in her prepared testimony. "They want President Trump to build the arch and are offering to help however they can."
VFAF National Leadership Formally Supports the Triumphal Arch
During her presentation, Tasker referenced a national letter supporting the project signed by VFAF National President Robert Cornicelli, National Vice President and General Counsel Jared Craig, Esq., and retired Rear Admiral Charles Kubic.
The organization's position emphasizes the importance of national monuments in preserving the sacrifices of American service members and recognizing the freedoms secured through generations of military service.
"They deserve to know that their country remembers. Those serving today deserve to know that their country will remember them, too," Tasker stated.
VFAF views the proposed monument as an opportunity to complete a longstanding vision for the ceremonial approach between Washington, D.C., and Arlington while commemorating America's military heritage.
Veterans Across America Submit Letters Supporting the Project
Tasker presented the perspectives of veterans and military families from across the country who submitted letters supporting the proposed arch.
Among those whose statements were highlighted were:
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Justin Schiro, U.S. Army veteran of the 10th Mountain Division who served in Afghanistan.
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Rarchar Tortorello, retired U.S. Air Force veteran, Khobar Towers bombing survivor, and VFAF Oklahoma State Chapter President.
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Andy Valadez, U.S. Marine Corps veteran and VFAF Texas Grassroots Director.
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Jeff Hoffmann, retired veteran and VFAF Virginia State Chapter President.
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Colonel Emilio T. Gonzalez, U.S. Army (Ret.), who advocated for a lasting symbol of American liberty and military service.
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Kevin Caldwell, Desert Storm veteran, former Department of Veterans Affairs employee, and VFAF Florida National Ambassador.
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Alyssa Schoof, military spouse who emphasized the sacrifices of military families and the importance of teaching future generations about American service.
Tasker requested that the veterans' letters be included in the commission's public record.
"Their service matters, their families matter, and their support for this monument matters," Tasker emphasized.
Tasker Proposes the Name "The Arch of America"
In addition to supporting the project, Tasker offered several design recommendations, including naming the monument "The Arch of America," incorporating an eternal "Flame of Freedom," and adding engraved panels recognizing the United States Constitution.
Tasker explained that such features could provide educational opportunities for future generations while honoring the constitutional principles that American service members swear to defend.
She also emphasized the importance of protecting military funerals, respecting grieving families, and preserving the historic character of the Arlington area.
"Our veterans deserve remembrance. Our Constitution deserves reverence. And our fallen heroes deserve an entrance that expresses the nation's gratitude," Tasker stated.
Clarifying the Media's "Trump's Arch" Nickname
Tasker also addressed the political controversy surrounding the proposed monument's name.
According to Tasker's account of discussions involving White House staff and counsel, the terms "Trump's Arch" and "Arc de Trump" originated as media nicknames rather than official names selected by President Trump.
Tasker noted that the project should be evaluated based on its historical and national significance rather than political disagreements over the president.
Her testimony encouraged commissioners to consider the perspectives of veterans and military families throughout the United States, emphasizing that Arlington National Cemetery and the nation's capital belong to all Americans.
A Personal Tribute to Generations of Military Service
Tasker's testimony also reflected her family's military history, particularly the service of her grandfather, U.S. Army Defense Attaché Hammond Benson Davis, whose career included World War II, the Cold War, and the Cuban Missile Crisis.
She described the personal significance of Arlington National Cemetery to military families and expressed her hope that future generations would have an opportunity to visit the proposed monument and learn about the sacrifices of those who served.
"For us, Arlington is personal. Its meaning reaches into homes across this nation—to an empty chair at a dinner table, a folded flag, a photograph, and stories children grow up hearing about someone they never had the chance to meet," Tasker stated.
Veterans for America First Continues Advocacy for the Monument
VFAF leadership has participated in discussions concerning the proposed arch and has supported efforts to advance the project through public advocacy, veterans' correspondence, and legal filings.
The organization maintains that the monument represents an opportunity to recognize America's military heritage while creating a lasting national landmark for generations to come.
Tasker's November 5 testimony added the voices of VFAF veterans and military families to the commission's public proceedings.
"There is a nation to consider and generations to serve," Tasker stated.
About Veterans for America First
Veterans for America First (VFAF), also known as Veterans for Trump, is a national grassroots organization composed of military veterans, law enforcement professionals, first responders, and civilian supporters. The organization advocates for veterans, military families, constitutional principles, national security, and public policies supporting those who have served the United States.
Website: https://vfaf.us
Media Contact:
Christi Tasker
National Press Secretary
Veterans for America First
connect@vfaf.us
