Recent discourse from the Trump administration concerning Denmark's commitment as an ally and its stance on Greenland has ignited a wave of strong emotions among Danish military veterans. These former service members articulate feelings of profound disappointment and betrayal, especially given their history of combat alongside American forces in theaters such as Afghanistan and Iraq. Their experiences highlight the deep personal sacrifices made in the spirit of international cooperation and the perceived disregard for these contributions by the current U.S. political narrative.
Henrik Bager, a Company Sergeant Major, articulated his dismay while in Copenhagen. He likened the administration's comments to a "punch to the gut" that persisted, leading to a build-up of sorrow, disillusionment, and indignation. Having deployed five times with American counterparts, Bager's personal connection to the alliance is substantial. His sentiments mirror a broader feeling within Denmark, where many perceive the recent U.S. statements as an insult to the sacrifices made by Danish soldiers.
Bager's distress led him to compose a poignant letter to Rufus Gifford, the former U.S. Ambassador to Denmark, expressing how the accusation of disloyalty felt like a "slap in the face" to those who had stood shoulder-to-shoulder with American troops. He underscored Denmark's unwavering support post-9/11, emphasizing that Danish soldiers answered the call without hesitation, risking their lives and enduring immense personal loss for the alliance. This personal appeal highlights the deep emotional investment Danish veterans have in their relationship with the U.S.
Rufus Gifford, upon reading Bager's letter, felt a profound sense of emotional responsibility. He stressed the foundational principles of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), particularly Article Five, which posits an attack on one member as an attack on all. Gifford noted that this article was invoked only once—after 9/11—prompting Bager's deployment to Afghanistan. He argued that the success of such alliances hinges on mutual support and loyalty, criticizing the current rhetoric for undermining decades of built-up trust.
Bager recounted his service as a squad leader in Afghanistan's Helmand Province in 2009, a notoriously dangerous zone. He shared the harrowing experience of returning home for his father's funeral only to rejoin his unit and complete his mission, illustrating the profound dedication of Danish soldiers. He noted the heavy toll on Denmark, with 43 casualties among its relatively small population, emphasizing that the current political rhetoric trivializes these immense sacrifices, causing further pain to the bereaved families.
The criticism from the Trump administration, particularly Vice President JD Vance's comments on Denmark's commitment to Greenland's defense and Trump's proposals to acquire Greenland, deeply offended many. Villads Welling, a political science student, observed that these remarks disrespect the fallen Danish soldiers, suggesting their sacrifices were in vain. Similarly, Peter Jensen, a 63-year-old whose son and son-in-law are veterans, described the situation as a "betrayal," expressing heartbreak over the casual disregard for the strong alliance.
Søren Knudsen, a retired Danish Army officer, vividly recalled the honor of receiving an American flag and plaque for his service in Afghanistan, a testament to the strong bond between the two nations. However, after Vance's comments, Knudsen, feeling a mix of "pain, betrayal, sadness," removed this cherished emblem from display. His wife, Gina Scharr, an American-born citizen, shared her sorrow over this development, lamenting the potential fundamental shift in the U.S.-Danish relationship. Both expressed concern that the current administration's approach prioritized "brute power" over historical alliances and trust.
Knudsen, who serves as vice chairman of the Danish Veterans Association, emphasized the historical admiration Danes have held for the U.S. as a global leader. He underscored that Danish soldiers fought alongside Americans not for applause, but to defend shared values. The current erosion of trust, he explained, is particularly painful for those who deeply believe in the transatlantic alliance. Despite the current challenges, he clings to the hope that one day, the strong bonds symbolized by the Stars and Stripes will be fully restored.
