The U.S. Air Force has formally extended full military funeral honors to Ashli Babbitt, the 35-year-old veteran who was shot and killed during the Capitol riot on January 6th, 2021, NBC News reports. The decision was announced on Thursday following a review of her service and death.
“After reviewing the circumstances of SrA Babbitt’s death, the Air Force has offered Military Funeral Honors to SrA Babbitt’s family,” a spokesperson confirmed.
Babbitt served in both the Air Force and the Air National Guard. She was among the mob that attempted to breach the House chamber when she was fatally shot by Capitol Police Lt. Michael Byrd. Byrd was later cleared of any misconduct by both federal and internal investigations.
Conservative group Judicial Watch had publicly advocated for Babbitt’s recognition, saying her service deserved the honors.
“Ashli Babbitt’s patriotic and courageous service in the U.S. Air Force and Air National Guard also merits favorable action on this request,” the group wrote.
Babbitt had publicly supported multiple conspiracy theories and was a vocal Trump supporter. Her death has since become a rallying point for some far-right circles, portraying her as a political martyr.
Earlier this year, her estate reached a $5 million wrongful death settlement with the U.S. government following a lawsuit. Her family has not issued a statement regarding the Air Force’s latest decision.
