Bannon’s War Room: Episode 4512 - WarRoom Memorial Day Special 2025

Release Date: May 26, 2025
Host: WarRoom.org (Stephen K. Bannon)
Description: This episode commemorates Memorial Day with a live coverage of President Donald Trump’s ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery. The discussion delves into the significance of military strength, the legacy of the Korean War, and the current geopolitical climate, emphasizing the theme of "peace through strength."

1. Opening Remarks: "Peace Through Strength"

Steve Bannon opens the episode with a passionate declaration about the United States' military focus:

"No more distractions, no more electric tanks, no more gender confusion, no more climate change worship. We are laser focused on our mission of warfighting. We will measure our success not only by the battles we win, but also by the wars we end, and perhaps most importantly, the wars we never get into."
[00:00]

Bannon underscores the importance of military prowess in ensuring national peace and security, emphasizing:

"It's called peace through strength... They are incredible. Through our power and might, we will lead the world to peace."
[00:30]

2. Live Coverage of Memorial Day Ceremony

The episode transitions to live coverage of President Trump's Memorial Day ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery. Steve Bannon outlines the day's agenda:

"Today we will be giving a live coverage of the President of the United States... He will address, he'll lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknowns, and then make appropriate remarks."
[05:26]

Steve Gruber provides real-time updates from Arlington, highlighting the event's solemnity and significance:

"It feels like a solid event... listening to Donald Trump will deliver remarks here a little bit later."
[20:32]

As the ceremony progresses, the Marine Corps band performs patriotic music, setting a reverent tone. Bannon and Gruber monitor the arrival of President Trump, noting the presence of honor guards and the emotional atmosphere.

3. The Forgotten Korean War: Legacy and Lessons

A significant portion of the discussion centers on the Korean War, often termed the "forgotten war." Patrick K. O'Donnell introduces the topic by reflecting on his experiences and John Mills shares a poignant story:

"Ron Rosser... his platoon was reduced from over 100 men to around 30... he single-handedly charged a bunker... received the Medal of Honor."
[10:11]

Steve Bannon emphasizes the brutal realities of the Korean conflict, comparing it to historical battles:

"Korea is not the forgotten war to veterans... the sacrifice of American troops in Korea was absolutely incredible."
[11:40]

John Mills further elaborates on the heroism displayed during the Chosin Reservoir battle:

"These were men that had never even gone through boot camp... they held a hill against all odds and helped save the war."
[30:48]

The conversation highlights the importance of remembering such sacrifices to foster a sense of purpose and competence in military engagements.

4. Current Geopolitical Climate: The Third World War

The hosts draw parallels between historical conflicts and the present-day geopolitical tensions, framing the current situation as part of a "Third World War." Steve Bannon asserts:

"We're in the kinetic part of the Third World War. What is happening today is far bloodier than what happened between September 1939 and the invasion of Russia by the Wehrmacht in June of 1941."
[41:07]

Patrick K. O'Donnell adds context regarding the BRICS summit and its implications for the US dollar:

"The Rio Reset in July marks a pivotal moment when BRICS objectives move decisively from a theoretical possibility towards inevitable reality."
[15:00]

The discussion underscores the strategic importance of military readiness and economic resilience in countering emerging global threats, particularly from China and Russia.

5. Leadership and Military Competence: The Trump Era

A recurring theme is the contrast between current leadership under President Trump and past administrations, particularly in handling military and geopolitical challenges.

Steve Bannon reflects on his military experience and the need for competent leadership:

"Ronald Reagan, the difference between Reagan and Carter... it's the difference in the military's confidence and competence."
[40:09]

John Mills emphasizes the critical role of leadership in shaping military strategy and national policy:

"The commander in chief's leadership will change policy, will change everything... it's absolutely essential to have leadership at the top."
[54:01]

The hosts agree that President Trump's approach reinstills a sense of purpose and effective execution in military operations, aiming to prevent "forever wars" and ensure victories with clear objectives.

6. Commemoration and National Memory

Throughout the episode, there is a strong emphasis on honoring the fallen and preserving national memory. Steve Gruber captures the profound sentiment at Arlington:

"You can imagine it's the same for all these families... It's a privilege honestly to be here."
[20:25]

Steve Bannon reflects on personal connections to Arlington, highlighting the emotional and historical significance:

"My great grandfather is buried at Arlington National Cemetery... It's an honor to have relatives buried there."
[26:52]

The hosts advocate for educating future generations about military history and the sacrifices made, ensuring that the legacy of valor and patriotism continues.

7. Concluding Remarks: Commitment to American Exceptionalism

In wrapping up, Steve Bannon reiterates the importance of maintaining American strength and exceptionalism:

"This is what President Trump is trying to reset... peace through strength."
[56:00]

John Mills echoes the need for strategic prudence and economic preparedness to navigate the perilous global landscape:

"The pandemic swept the world... it's essential to have leadership at the top which will then go down to all levels of the military and the United States."
[46:02]

The episode concludes with a unified call to honor the servicemen and women, uphold national strength, and strive for lasting peace through unwavering military capability.

Notable Quotes

• Steve Bannon: "Peace through strength." [00:00]
• Steve Bannon: "We fight because we love what's behind us." [01:16]
• Patrick K. O'Donnell: "If that answer is to save my country, this country will be saved." [05:22]
• John Mills: "Korean War is not over. There's never been any peace treaty." [12:33]
• Steve Bannon: "This is the most important. That's why President Trump... will go to Arlington." [15:00]
• Steve Gruber: "It's a generational emotional day for these families." [37:27]
• John Mills: "The commander in chief's leadership will change policy, will change everything." [54:40]
• Steve Bannon: "Peace through strength... we're going all in and we're going to commit to victory." [57:13]

Conclusion

Episode 4512 of Bannon’s War Room serves as a poignant Memorial Day special, intertwining live event coverage with deep discussions on military history, current conflicts, and the imperative of strong leadership. Through heartfelt narratives and strategic insights, the episode honors the sacrifices of American service members while advocating for a steadfast approach to national security and global peace.