Donald Trump is famously known for managing to dodge the Vietnam War draft, and now it seems his youngest son, Barron Trump, will also stay away from military service, sparking frustration among some Americans. The reason behind this is a medical exemption.
Currently, tensions in the Middle East have been escalating significantly. The situation with Iran has become more severe, as U.S. and Israeli forces have launched attacks on various sites, including key locations within Tehran. Reports have even circulated that Iran’s supreme leader, Ali Khamenei, was killed during these strikes over the weekend.
In retaliation, Iran launched counter-attacks, and by Tuesday, six American service members had reportedly lost their lives. The exact number of casualties on the Iranian side is still unclear.
As Donald Trump and his administration proceeded with military operations in Iran without the formal consent of Congress, critics are questioning the president’s decision-making skills—particularly given his own lack of military experience.
None of Trump’s children—Donald Jr., Eric, Ivanka, or Tiffany—have served in the military, which left Barron as the potential first family member to join the armed forces.
Trump’s history with the draft process has been a subject of much discussion. Reports indicate that a Queens podiatrist, Dr. Larry Braunstein, who passed away around two decades ago, diagnosed Trump with bone spurs as a favor to Trump’s father, Fred. This diagnosis enabled Trump to secure a medical deferment and avoid the draft.
In 2016, Trump claimed that a doctor provided him with a “very strong letter” regarding his heels to present to draft officials, although he oddly could not remember the physician’s name.
#SendBarron Hashtag Gains Traction Amid Iran Conflict
Given that Donald Trump likely avoided the draft under questionable circumstances, many Americans, particularly those with military backgrounds, have expressed their discontent.
During the weekend, as the conflict with Iran intensified, the hashtag #SendBarron began trending.
One of the users voiced: “Why not embody the Trump family spirit of patriotism by sending Barron to fight Iran?”
“At least someone from the Trump family should show their patriotism by serving instead of benefiting from others’ sacrifices,” another participant chimed in.
Another post added: “#SendBarron. It would certainly send a message of unity with our troops, and show gratitude for their sacrifices every day.”
A user commented: “If you elect leaders who are keen on war, perhaps you or your children should first explain why the cause is worth it.”
Trump’s involvement in escalating the conflict while staying in comfort was also critiqued. Someone remarked, “The President is relaxing at his club while initiating WWIII #SendBarron.”
Why Medical Conditions Prevent Barron Trump From Military Service
Military drafts typically begin with individuals turning 20 within the draft year, and Barron, who turns 20 in May, would normally be eligible. However, his exemption from service comes not from dubious means, but rather due to medical considerations you might not expect.
Barron, standing at 6’7”, might be too tall for certain military positions, especially those involving confined spaces like tanks, armored vehicles, and aircraft, based on reports from the Mirror.
The US Army enforces a height limit for several roles, capping at 6’8”, which would indeed prevent Barron from serving in those capacities.
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