President Trump and the first lady took a trip to Las Vegas on Wednesday to offer support, words of encouragement, and gestures of gratitude to those who were injured in Sunday night’s shooting, those who cared for the wounded, and the heroes who helped others in a time of need.
Trump and his wife visited survivors at the University Medical Center, along with the medical professionals caring for them. At the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department and Command Center the president and first lady spent time with first responders, supporting personnel, and what the president referred to as civilian heroes.
Dr. John Fildes, medical director at the trauma center, said the community came together and “did a perfect job” in the midst of chaos.
“What I saw today is just an incredible tribute to professionalism,” Trump said while addressing the media at the medical center, which treated and released about 100 people the night of the shooting and admitted about another 50. And to the city and those affected by the tragedy, the president’s message was simple: “We’re with you 100 percent.”
Trump said he even invited the survivors to the White House.
At least one reporter took the opportunity to ask Trump whether he believes the country has a problem with gun violence, but the inquiry was quickly shot down and the focus put back on the professionals who saved lives during the tragedy.
“Well, we’re not going to talk about that today,” Trump said in response to the question about gun violence.
When asked about the gunman’s possible motive for the nation’s deadliest mass shooting in modern history, Trump indicated authorities are still searching for answers, but called the gunman “a very sick man” and a “demented person.”
During his final address for the day, which took place at the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, Trump said Sunday’s mass murder filled the nation’s heart with grief.
“America is truly a nation in mourning,” he said, while asking God to ease suffering and speed healing.
“Many families tonight will go to bed in a world that is suddenly empty. The people they so dearly love were torn away from them forever,” Trump continued, speaking of those who lost loved ones in the shooting.
“Our souls are stricken with grief for every American who lost a husband or a wife, a mother or a father, a son or a daughter. We know that your sorrow feels endless. We stand together to help you carry your pain. You’re not alone. We will never leave your side,” he said.
The president also noted, “In the darkest moments, what shines most brightly is the goodness that thrives in the hearts of our people.”
And the nation – and beyond – has shined. In the three days following the shooting, the city and all of those affected have received an enormous outpouring of support, including more than $9 million in donations in just two days. Additionally, blood donation centers have received all of the donations they can use for the foreseeable future, while local authorities have been overwhelmed with the amount of food and water donations, which are now being directed to local food banks.
The post Trump visits survivors, first responders in Las Vegas (VIDEO) appeared first on Guns.com.