Full Breakdown
U.S. Air Force Offers Military Funeral Honors to Ashli Babbitt
8/30/2025, 8:00:43 AM
Overview of the Decision
The U.S. Air Force has announced it will provide full military funeral honors to Ashli Babbitt, a 35-year-old Air Force veteran who was shot and killed during the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot. This decision marks a significant policy shift from the Biden administration, which had previously denied her family’s request for such honors shortly after her death. Under Secretary of the Air Force Matthew Lohmeier confirmed the reversal in an August 15 letter, stating that he was "persuaded that the previous determination was incorrect" after reviewing new information regarding the circumstances of Babbitt's death.
Background and Context
Babbitt was shot by Capitol Police Lt. Michael Byrd as she attempted to breach a barricaded door leading to the Speaker’s Lobby, draped in a Trump campaign flag. The incident occurred amid a chaotic attempt by a mob of pro-Trump supporters to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election. Following her death, the Biden administration denied military honors, citing concerns that granting them would "bring discredit upon the Air Force." However, the Trump administration later agreed to a nearly $5 million settlement with Babbitt's family in a wrongful death lawsuit, further complicating the narrative surrounding her legacy.
Key Figures Involved
- Ashli Babbitt: A U.S. Air Force veteran who served from 2004 to 2016, including deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. She became a controversial figure after her death during the Capitol riot.
- Matthew Lohmeier: Under Secretary of the Air Force, who announced the decision to grant military honors, calling it "long overdue."
- Michael Byrd: The Capitol Police officer who shot Babbitt, cleared of any wrongdoing following an investigation.
Official Statements & Responses
Lohmeier's letter to Babbitt's family included an invitation to meet him at the Pentagon, expressing condolences and acknowledging the previous denial of honors. An Air Force spokesperson confirmed the decision, stating that it followed a comprehensive review of the circumstances surrounding Babbitt's death. The conservative legal group Judicial Watch, which advocated for Babbitt's family, welcomed the decision, framing it as a recognition of her service.
Criticism & Opposition
The decision to grant military honors has sparked significant backlash. Former Rep. Adam Kinzinger criticized the move, stating, "Babbitt dishonored her service by committing insurrection against her country." He expressed sympathy for her tragic death but maintained that honoring her undermines the sacrifices of law enforcement and military personnel. Aquilino Gonell, a former Capitol Police officer, described the decision as a "slap in the face" to those injured during the riot.
What's Next
The military honors will include a formal ceremony with the playing of "Taps" and the presentation of an American flag to Babbitt's family. Lohmeier's invitation for Babbitt's mother and husband to meet at the Pentagon indicates ongoing engagement with her family following this controversial decision.
Conclusion
The Air Force's decision to offer military funeral honors to Ashli Babbitt has reignited discussions about the events of January 6, 2021, and the implications of honoring individuals involved in the Capitol riot. As public discourse continues, Babbitt's case remains a focal point in the broader narrative surrounding the Capitol attack and its aftermath.
