Throughout the year, military veterans rightfully receive recognition on traditional holidays like Memorial Day, Pearl Harbor Day, and Veterans Day. However, the Intrepid Sea, Air, and Space Museum consistently pays tribute to veterans by offering educational and community programs dedicated to honoring their contributions and supporting their ongoing healing, particularly for those dealing with the unseen scars of war.
This year's "Salute to Freedom" event at the Intrepid Sea, Air, and Space Museum in New York City aimed to celebrate the contributions of five service members and their families, alongside notable figures like Jon Bon Jovi and iHeartMedia Chairman and CEO Bob Pittman.
Both Bon Jovi and Pittman have been honored for their unwavering commitment to supporting military personnel and addressing issues like food insecurity and veteran homelessness. Bon Jovi received the 2021 Intrepid Lifetime Achievement Award for his significant work through the John Bon Jovi Soul Foundation.
During the event, Meghan Markle made an appearance in a custom-made, striking red gown designed by Wes Gordon for Carolina Herrera. The dress featured a razor neck and a deep V-neckline leading into a full skirt offset by a second underskirt. However, Meghan faced criticism for seemingly overshadowing the service members and diverting the spotlight from the true purpose of the event.
Despite her efforts to make a statement with her attire, Meghan's red dress was met with tabloid criticism, with some likening it to a cheap prom dress that appeared ill-fitting and wrinkled. Critics argued that the choice of outfit was inappropriate for an event honoring war veterans, especially considering that women are typically not attendees at such gatherings. Meghan's decision to attend in this manner was perceived by some as an attempt to shift the focus onto herself rather than the event's purpose.
Interestingly, the attention garnered by Meghan's attire had an unexpected consequence. It became evident that more people were drawn to Jon Bon Jovi's photo gallery featuring him with the soldiers, with five times as many viewers compared to those interested in Meghan's red dress. This incident sparked discussions about Meghan's fashion choices and her perceived tendency to make events about herself, even when they are meant to honor others.
Furthermore, Meghan and Harry brought their personal photographer to the event, fueling criticism that their presence aimed to shine the spotlight on themselves rather than the event and its participants. Critics argued that the photos taken primarily showcased the couple rather than the event's true purpose.
Meanwhile, news of Meghan Markle's potential candidacy for a vacant Senate seat has generated significant debate. Some people feel she may be a suitable candidate, citing competence as an afterthought. Claims regarding Meghan's interest in the Senate seat were reported by writer Lee Cohen, who explored the topic in one of his pieces for The Telegraph. According to Cohen, in Joe Biden's America, where virtue signaling and identity characteristics often take precedence in candidate selection, Meghan Markle appears to be a viable candidate for high office, despite her divisive reputation and limited legislative experience.
