The hashtag #SendBarron is trending on social media after a satirical website called for President Donald Trump to deploy his youngest son, Barron, into the military. The site, Draftbarrontrump.com, was created by Toby Morton, a former writer for the animated series South Park, amid ongoing US and Israeli airstrikes against Iran under Operation Epic Fury.
At least four American service members have been killed and several others seriously wounded as the assault enters its third day. Trump has been accused of appearing indifferent to the deaths, describing them as a reality of war and warning the toll could rise. During a Medal of Honor ceremony, he spoke about plans for the White House ballroom, prompting speculation over whether he would feel differently if his own son were deployed.
The website opens with a declaration that 'America is strong because its leaders are strong' and features images of father and son styled like war conscription posters. It includes spoof quotes attributed to Trump and his older sons, with one parody quote from the president saying, 'People come up to me, with tears in their eyes, and they say, “Sir, you’re the strongest. Send Barron off to war.”'
Thousands of social media users echoed the message, with one posting: '#SendBarron. Would certainly send a message of solidarity with our troops.' Another wrote: 'POTUS is chilling at his own country club while starting WWIII #SendBarron.' The issue of military service is sensitive for the Trump family, as the president avoided the Vietnam draft due to a bone spur diagnosis later reported to be a 'favour' from a podiatrist.
However, Barron may have a legitimate exemption: at 6'9'', he exceeds the maximum height limit for most US military branches, which cap enlistment at 6'8'' for the Army, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard and Space Force, and 6'6'' for the Marine Corps.
