During a heartfelt moment at a joint session of Congress, President Donald Trump honored a young boy named Devarjay “DJ” Daniel by appointing him as an honorary Secret Service agent. This touching event took place on Tuesday, March 5, 2025, and left many in the audience visibly moved.
DJ, who is just 13 years old, was diagnosed with brain cancer at the age of six. Since then, he has bravely undergone over a dozen surgeries. His dream has always been to become a police officer, and he has previously been recognized as an honorary Deputy Chief by several law enforcement agencies, including the Birmingham Police Department.
As Trump spoke, he announced, “Tonight, DJ, we’re going to do you the biggest honor of them all.” He then called upon Sean Curran, the new Secret Service Director, to present DJ with his honorary badge. The young boy’s face lit up with surprise and joy as he accepted the badge and hugged Curran, creating a heartwarming scene that resonated with everyone present.
Social media was abuzz with reactions to the moment. Radio host Dana Loesch shared her excitement, praising DJ’s sweet expression. Meghan McCain, whose late father battled brain cancer, expressed her gratitude, saying it was the first time she remembered crying during a State of the Union address. She noted how special the moment was for anyone affected by brain cancer.
Others joined in the praise as well. Jason Howerton highlighted the significance of appointing a child with cancer as an official Secret Service agent, calling it a powerful moment. Former White House Press Secretary Ari Fleischer remarked on the importance of supporting a young boy with big dreams.
The event also featured DJ congratulating another guest, Jason Hartley, who had just received news of his admission to West Point. This moment of camaraderie added to the emotional weight of the evening.
DJ’s story and the recognition he received serve as a reminder of the strength and resilience of young people facing serious challenges. The event not only honored DJ’s dreams but also brought attention to the struggles of children battling illness, making it a memorable highlight of the night.