Exactly one year after surviving an attempt on his life, former President Donald Trump reflected on the tragic events of July 13, 2024, thanking God and honoring the heroes who emerged from the chaos.

Trump delivered an official statement on July 13, 2025, commemorating the anniversary of the shooting at a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, where he narrowly escaped death and a supporter was killed protecting his family, The Daily Wire reported.

The incident took place at Butler Farms in front of thousands of attendees. The shooting began at 6:11 p.m., just eight minutes after Trump had taken the stage to speak. Gunman Thomas Crooks opened fire, sending the crowd into panic and striking individuals in the audience before being neutralized.

Trump’s survival was attributed in part to a last-second movement—he had altered his speech and turned his head just as Crooks fired. A bullet ultimately missed him by less than a quarter of an inch. Experts believe Crooks, possibly aware of approaching law enforcement, may have discharged his weapon hastily.

In a somber and reverent tone, Trump said that he believed divine intervention was responsible for saving his life. He noted that his understanding of faith had been transformed by the experience, stating, "God alone saved me that day for a righteous purpose."

Looking Back at a Day of Chaos and Bravery

In his anniversary message, Trump described the attack as one of the nation's darkest hours. He commended the swift actions of first responders, medical personnel, and fellow rallygoers who sprang into action amid the mayhem. Their bravery, as he described it, reflected the enduring resilience of the American spirit.

“These men and women arrived at the rally as ordinary Americans but left as heroes,” Trump said, recognizing those who rendered aid and helped usher others to safety. He credited their compassion and courage with saving lives and preventing greater tragedy.

Among them was Corey Comperatore, a firefighter, U.S. military veteran, husband, and father. When Crooks started shooting, Comperatore shielded his wife and daughters with his body, ultimately paying with his life. Trump called him a "selfless hero" whose sacrifice symbolized love and valor.

Trump Reaffirms Mission After Surviving Attempt

Touching on his transformation, Trump acknowledged that he had not always been deeply religious. However, surviving the near-deadly encounter at Butler led him to reconsider. He now believes he was spared for a “righteous purpose”: to help restore the country and oppose those, in his view, who threaten it.

Reflecting on the year that followed, Trump said he believes the nation is undergoing a cultural and political revival. He characterized the period since the assassination attempt as a “new Golden Age,” underscoring what he sees as a renewed sense of unity and purpose among Americans.

Trump contrasted the actions of the attacker with the courage of those at the rally, stating the would-be assassin would be remembered for his failure. In contrast, the legacy of those who risked their lives, he said, would live on in the heart of the nation.

Honoring a Family’s Sacrifice

In tribute to Corey Comperatore, Trump spoke emotionally about the man’s final act of devotion. “When gunfire erupted, Corey did not hesitate to protect his wife and two daughters,” Trump recalled. “He died a hero.”

On the anniversary, the White House shared a video featuring Comperatore’s widow, Helen, and their two daughters. In it, they reflected on the loss of their beloved husband and father, and the enduring impact of that moment on their lives.

Trump said the courage shown by the Comperatore family, and by others affected by the attack, continues to inspire him and many across the country. He added that remembering their resilience is key to preserving the values Corey defended with his life.

Marking a Turning Point in Trump’s Journey

Trump used the occasion not only to remember the fallen and honor the survivors but also to reframe the shooting as a pivotal moment in his renewed political and spiritual mission. As he put it, “the harrowing events” of that day catalyzed his determination to continue leading and to confront what he calls “the forces of evil and destruction.”

The symbolism of that date now carries broader meaning for Trump and his supporters. July 13, once a day of violence, is now a day of remembrance, reflection, and declaration, especially for those who view Trump’s survival as miraculous.

Closing his remarks, Trump issued a rallying call grounded in the response of the crowd on that day: “Today, we pay tribute to their spirit of love, unity, and resilience—and we proclaim with one voice... ‘Fight, fight, fight!’”