WASHINGTON – Over the weekend, veterans criticized former President Donald Trump for claiming that the Presidential Medal of Freedom is “much better” than the Medal of Honor, suggesting that those who receive the latter are often severely injured or deceased.

“These foolish comments not only undermine the importance of our nation’s premier award for bravery but also show a lack of respect for those who have faced extraordinary risks while serving,” stated Al Lipphardt, national commander of the Veterans of Foreign Wars.

Trump made these remarks during a campaign gathering at his golf resort in Bedminster, New Jersey, while discussing the potential awarding of the Presidential Medal of Freedom to Dr. Miriam Adelson, a physician and prominent Republican donor.

“It’s actually much better, because everyone gets the Congressional Medal of Honor, that’s soldiers – they’re either severely injured from being shot at or they’re dead,” Trump commented.

Dr. Adelson is the widow of billionaire casino magnate Sheldon Adelson, who was also a significant contributor to the GOP.

Karoline Leavitt, Trump’s national press secretary, defended his statement by saying that he was acknowledging the emotional difficulties associated with bestowing the Congressional Medal of Honor to veterans who have suffered injuries or have tragically lost their lives in service.

Critics pointed out Trump’s previous comments referring to veterans as “suckers” and “losers,” allegations he has strongly denied. During the 2016 campaign, he also insulted John McCain’s service as a prisoner of war during the Vietnam War.

Senator Jack Reed, D-R.I., who chairs the Senate Armed Services Committee, condemned Trump’s remarks as disgraceful, stating that such an attitude towards wounded service members is a source of national shame. “Someone who continually mocks our military personnel and disrespects injured soldiers is unfit to lead as Commander-in-Chief,” he remarked.

A statement from Reed’s office emphasized that the Medal of Honor is awarded to servicemembers who demonstrate remarkable bravery and selflessness at great personal risk, noting that the nomination process is rigorous and extensive. Currently, there are 60 living recipients of this honor.

The Kamala Harris campaign also criticized Trump’s comments regarding the Medal of Honor. Spokesperson Sarafina Chitika stated that Trump “knows nothing about serving others or anything beyond himself.”

Brian Hughes, a senior adviser to Trump, countered that the former president accomplished more for veterans than the current administration and noted that Harris had taken part in the discussions that led to the chaotic U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan.