In a moving moment during his address to a joint session of Congress on Tuesday, President Donald Trump honored 13-year-old Devarjaye “DJ” Daniel, a brain cancer survivor, by making him an honorary member of the U.S. Secret Service.
DJ, who was diagnosed with brain cancer in 2018 and given just five months to live, has defied the odds for over six years. Seated in the House gallery alongside his father, he attended the speech wearing a Houston police uniform—symbolizing his lifelong dream of serving in law enforcement.
Trump, addressing the packed chamber, shared DJ’s inspiring journey. “In 2018, doctors gave DJ at most five months to live. That was more than six years ago,” he said, prompting a wave of applause from the audience. The young survivor has been recognized as an honorary officer by various police departments across the country.
Taking the tribute further, Trump announced, “Police departments love him. And tonight, DJ, we’re going to do you the biggest honor of them all. I am asking our new Secret Service director, Sean Curran, to officially make you an agent of the United States Secret Service.”
DJ’s eyes widened in astonishment as his father lifted him up, visibly moved by the moment. Sean Curran, the Secret Service director, presented DJ with what appeared to be an official credential, which the boy proudly displayed before embracing Curran in a heartfelt hug.
The touching moment drew cheers from lawmakers, with many standing to applaud the young fighter’s strength and determination. DJ’s story has become a beacon of hope and resilience, proving that courage can shine even in the darkest of times.
This unexpected but deeply meaningful gesture added an emotional highlight to Trump’s address, emphasizing the power of recognition and the unwavering spirit of a child determined to live his dream.
