Arredondo was violently assaulted by members of a pro war group known as "Gathering of Eagles" while honoring his son at a peace rally held in Washington, D.C on September 15, 2007. His son, Alexander, was killed in Iraq by a sniper on August 25, 2004.

In this photo, we see Gold Star Father Arredondo with a memorial coffin honoring his son.





Photo by Hilsdon Photography LLC

According to a story on the website "War is a Crime"", Arredondo's wife Mélida described the events of that day.

As Carlos passed counter protesters, one man ripped a picture of Alex from the memorial. Carlos leaped on the man to retrieve the picture. It was at that point that approximately five others all began to attack Carlos by kicking him in the head, legs, stomach and back.

In this photo, Arredondo is seen on the ground surrounded by his attackers.



Photo by Hilsdon Photography LLC



The Capitol police bicycle patrol then appeared to break up the fight. Several officers including a female officer were engaged in breaking up the fight and were able to stop any further injuries from occurring. Hannah Jones who was walking with Carlos was also assaulted.

Photo by Hilsdon Photography LLC

In this photograph, we see the Capital Police speaking with the smiling perpetrators.

If you zoom in on this photo, you can see the logo of "Gathering of Eagles" on a t-shirt, as well as a Vietnam veteran logo on one of the thug's ball cap.

So, this is how this group of "patriots" honor our fallen soldiers and their families?

I hope Boston officials honor Arredondo for his quick and unselfish action immediately following the bomb blast in Boston. And, I hope the "Gathering of Eagle" punks feel ashamed of their attack, but somehow, I figure they won't.

More photos of the attack here.