Governor Glenn Youngkin Welcomes Virginia's Newest -- and Most Heroic -- State Trooper

When America first met young cancer patient DJ Daniel, he was a guest at President Trump's Joint Address to Congress. During the speech, Trump recognized the 13-year-old young man as a hero for his fight against brain cancer, and also gave him a huge surprise: making Daniel an honorary Secret Service agent.

Wow what a moment for DJ. This is what America is all about. pic.twitter.com/VNV5cXdUOF
— Jordan Schachtel (@JordanSchachtel) March 5, 2025

Only the most soulless, inhuman ghoul could not be touched by the moment and take pride in Daniel and America. That explains why all of the Democrats sat on their hands and refused to even clap for him. Later that evening, Rachel Maddow sank to a new low, even for her, as she called Trump 'disgusting' for recognizing Daniel.

Last month, Twitchy unfortunately reported some bad news with Daniel's father announcing that his son was now facing three new brain tumors. No one, let alone a child, should have to go through that. Ever.

I remember after Daniel's moment that night thinking (and writing) that we should all respect the family's wishes and not try to force too much attention on Daniel. He is still just a kid, after all, a kid who is facing an incredibly difficult fight.

But Daniel is stronger than even I imagined at the time. It turns out that he wants to serve as an inspiration for others, as well as a champion for law enforcement. As The Roanoke Times reported, he and his father have been visiting law enforcement agencies across the country since long before Trump's address, as many locations as his illness will allow, so he can shine a spotlight on his heroes.

'Today, the Commonwealth of Virginia proudly recognizes DJ Daniel for his selfless character, courage, and strength. At just 13-years-old, DJ Daniel has shown more bravery and spirit than most do in a lifetime. As the top law enforcement officer in the Commonwealth of Virginia, it is an immense privilege and honor to welcome DJ into our law enforcement family — one united by a shared calling to protect and serve. Virginia is in your corner, DJ,'

Sheriff Lenny Millholland echoed Miyares' comments:

'DJ and his father are two wonderful people. For all that this young man has been through, you have to admire his outlook on life and the love DJ has for law enforcement and those who put on the badge. He is an inspiration to so many. We love him. I am glad we are able to make his dream come true.'

Something tells me that Daniel also has fulfilled the dreams of every officer who has been able to meet him.

While many on the left have been demonizing police and other law enforcement officers for years, something that has been on stark display recently in cities like Los Angeles, a young man battling cancer has shown them, and all of us, a better way.

This is awesome! Thanks Governor @GovernorVA for helping DJ accomplish his Law Enforcement goals across America 🥳👏👏👏
— Jana Hooker 🟥 (@jhook06) June 25, 2025

DJ Daniel my hero https://t.co/e92fPk4Bwy
— Jo (@bluecollarmech1) June 24, 2025

Tnis kid is everything Right with this country. https://t.co/aIQGotfsOI
— The Salty Vet🧂 (@SuperSalty5748) June 25, 2025

Yes. Yes, he is.

Cancer has taken so many people from us -- our friends, family, and other loved ones -- and who could blame a 13-year-old boy for wanting to focus on his health and treatments as he fights for survival?

Instead, Daniel has recognized something truly rare these days (and, if you will forgive me, almost completely absent on the left). He has seen that it is about more than himself, and he wants to use his higher profile not simply to achieve his own goals, but to show the nation that there are heroes in uniform in every town, city, and state in America.

We should all be as brave and as he is, a true man for others, in the Ignatian tradition.

And we should all thank him for what he is doing, as we continue to pray for him.