A victim of last weekend’s mass shooting in Las Vegas is drawing millions to his Facebook page with video that shows him summoning the strength to stand as President Trump enters his hospital room.
Thomas Gunderson was shot in the leg during Sunday’s shooting rampage by 64-year-old Stephen Paddock, which killed 58 people and injured 489 others. The pain of his wounds, however, did not stop him from rising as first lady Melania Trump and the president arrived at his bedside to wish him a quick recovery.
“I will never lie down when the president of this great country comes to shake my hand!” he wrote on his Facebook page Wednesday. “There may be plenty of issues in this country but I will always respect my country, my president, and my flag. Shot in the leg or not, I will stand to show my president the respect he deserves!”
“Hey, this guy looks tough to me,” Mr. Trump said as he made eye contact and patted Mr. Gunderson on the shoulder.
Over 17 million people have viewed the video, along with tens-of-thousands who commented with words of support.
“This is a man with integrity,” wrote Joan Snow-Healy on Thursday.
“Thomas Gunderson, you are a True Hero. Get well soon,” added John Pawelski.
Mr. Trump’s visit to Las Vegas also included meetings with first responders.
FBI officials are still trying to find a motive for Paddock’s attack. The gunman killed himself as law enforcement stormed his suite on the 32nd floor of the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino.
• Douglas Ernst can be reached at dernst@washingtontimes.com.
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