President Trump on Monday greeted troops stationed in Japan aboard the USS Wasp, some of whom donned morale patches that featured a play on his campaign slogan.
Reporters traveling with the president during his state visit to Japan observed some service members had patches that read “Make Aircrew Great Again” with the president’s likeness.
{mosads}Troops often wear themed morale patches, which can contain humorous images and references unique to the unit.
Trump visited two military outfits to cap off his weekend trip to Japan. He first visited the J.S. Kaga with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, where he addressed Japanese forces.
The president then met with U.S. troops aboard the USS Wasp, where he wished them a “very happy Memorial Day.” Some military families prefer to avoid that phrase, noting the somber nature of the holiday.
Over the course of roughly 30 minutes, Trump critiqued the ship’s design, recounted his trip to Japan and praised those aboard for their service.
“Today, the unbreakable resolve of these heroes lives on in every American who wears our great uniform,” he said. “Each day that you serve on these rolling but beautiful seas, you honor their sacrifice, you carry on their righteous duty, and you continue their noble legacy.”