Fox News apologizes for showing old video of a hatless Trump at dignified transfer

Network says it was an 'honest mistake' to air archival footage during coverage of ceremony.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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Fox News apologized for airing old video of a hatless President Donald Trump during coverage of his attendance at the dignified transfer ceremony for U.S. soldiers killed in the Middle East war, insisting it was an honest mistake. The network said a staff member inadvertently pulled up the archival footage, which was used on two Sunday morning telecasts, though the correct footage was used at other times.

Why it matters

The incident sparked criticism from some online, who suggested without evidence that Fox was trying to make Trump look better by not showing him wearing a baseball cap during the solemn ceremony. The dignified transfer of fallen soldiers is considered one of the most sacred duties of a commander-in-chief.

The details

Fox News said the incorrect footage was used due to an error by a staff member, and that the network had issued an on-air correction and apology. Some critics argued that if another network had made a similar mistake, Fox would have led the 'chorus of criticisms and faux-outrage' and that people would have lost their jobs.

  • The dignified transfer ceremony took place on Saturday at Dover Air Force Base.
  • Fox News aired the incorrect footage on two Sunday morning telecasts.

The players

Fox News

A major American cable news channel.

Donald Trump

Former President of the United States who attended the dignified transfer ceremony.

Mehdi Hasan

Founder of the online site Zeteo, who criticized Fox News' response to the incident.

Johnny 'Joey' Jones

A veteran and co-host of 'The Big Weekend Show' on Fox News Channel, who said he was 'embarrassed and ashamed' that the mistake happened.

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What they’re saying

“We regret the error and apologize for the incorrect footage.”

— Fox News (wbal.com)

“If posting snarky comments and insults is your way of reacting to this, please direct them at me. I'm the one with sharp words on these issues. If you are using this as a way to take a partisan jab at my hard working colleagues, check your watch.”

— Johnny 'Joey' Jones, veteran and co-host of 'The Big Weekend Show' on Fox News Channel (wbal.com)

What’s next

Fox News has said it will review its procedures to prevent similar mistakes from happening in the future.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the sensitivity and importance of coverage around the dignified transfer of fallen soldiers, and the need for news organizations to be vigilant in ensuring accuracy, especially on such solemn occasions.