Ashli Babbitt granted military honors after previous request denied under Biden

The Air Force has made a decision to extend military funeral honors to the late Senior Airman Ashli Babbitt, who tragically lost her life during the Capitol riot on Jan. 6, 2021. This decision comes after a previous denial of the request by Air Force leadership in February 2021, shortly after Babbitt’s death. The change of heart also follows a wrongful death settlement in July, where the government paid the Babbitt family nearly $5 million.

In a letter dated Aug. 15, the Undersecretary of the Air Force extended the offer for Military Funeral Honors to Babbitt’s husband, Aaron. The letter acknowledged that upon reviewing the circumstances of Babbitt’s death and considering new information that has come to light, the previous denial was deemed incorrect.

Babbitt was shot and killed by a U.S. Capitol police officer as she attempted to gain entry to the Capitol chambers during the events of Jan. 6. The Department of Justice later announced that no criminal charges would be pursued against the officer involved in the shooting.

The decision to grant Babbitt military honors has sparked both praise and criticism. General Michael Flynn commended the move, stating that it exemplified true leadership. However, former Rep. Adam Kinzinger criticized the decision, arguing that Babbitt’s actions during the riot dishonored her service.

Former Capitol Police officer Aquilino Gonell expressed dismay over the decision, calling it a slap in the face to those who were injured during the Capitol attack. He specifically mentioned Officer Brian Sicknick, who served in the Air National Guard and lost his life as a result of the events on Jan. 6.

The controversy surrounding the decision to grant Babbitt military honors underscores the ongoing debate over the events of Jan. 6 and the legacy of those involved.