In the most emotional moment during his speech to Congress on Tuesday, President Trump recognized the widow of Navy SEAL William "Ryan" Owens, provoking a standing ovation that lasted longer than two minutes.

"Ryan's legacy is etched into eternity," Trump said as the chamber stood up and applauded Carryn Owens, whose husband was the first American combat death during the Trump administration.

Carryn Owens, who was sitting next to Ivanka Trump and other guests on the balcony of the House chamber, fought back back tears, exhaled, looked above and mouthed "I love you, baby." Tears streaming down her face as the applause continued, Carryn Owens eventually stood up, clasped her hands in apparent prayer, raised her head again and mouthed "I love you."

Owens was killed in Yemen on Jan. 29 in a raid Trump has said was "highly successful."



"We are blessed to be joined tonight by Carryn Owens, the widow of a U.S. Navy Special Operator Senior Chief William 'Ryan' Owens," Trump said. "Ryan died as he lived: a warrior, and a hero — battling against terrorism and securing our nation."

Trump added: "I just spoke to Gen. Mattis, who reconfirmed that, and I quote, 'Ryan was a part of a highly successful raid that generated large amounts of vital intelligence that will lead to many more victories in the future against our enemies.'"

"Ryan's legacy is etched into eternity," Trump said. Turning towards Owens' widow, the president said: "Thank you."

"For as the Bible teaches us, there is no greater act of love than to lay down one's life for one's friends," the president said. "Ryan laid down his life for his friends, for his country, and for our freedom — we will never forget him."

When the applause finally quieted, Trump quipped: "Ryan is looking down right now. You know that. And he is very happy because I think he just broke a record." Carryn Owens cracked a smile and clapped.

After the speech, Trump was seen greeting Carryn Owens in the hallway of the Capitol.



Trump met Carryn Owens earlier this month when he traveled to Dover Air Force Base to attend the return of Owens' body.

Trump honored Owens' widow days after his father, Bill Owens, said he had refused to meet the president at Dover.

"I told them I didn't want to make a scene about it, but my conscience wouldn't let me talk to him," Bill Owens said.