George Santos faces reminders on Veterans Day about accusations of scamming a Navy veteran.

On Veterans Day, George Santos, a controversial figure recently released from prison, issued a message of gratitude towards veterans that ignited a wave of backlash across social media platforms. Santos, who gained notoriety for various allegations of fraud, faced immediate reminders of accusations linking him to a scandal involving a disabled Navy veteran and the tragic fate of his service dog.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Santos expressed his appreciation to veterans, saying, “Happy Veterans Day! Thank you to all veterans for your service!” However, this seemingly benign gesture was overshadowed by recollections from the online community, particularly those referencing the case of Richard Osthoff, a former sailor who accused Santos of misappropriating funds intended for his dog’s medical treatment.

According to reports, Osthoff raised approximately ,000 on a fundraising campaign to cover the cost of veterinary care for his emotional support dog, Sapphire, who was suffering from a tumor. Allegedly, rather than using the funds for Sapphire’s surgery, Santos kept the money, leaving the dog without necessary treatment and leading to her eventual death. Osthoff described the bond with his dog as profound, noting that Sapphire played a vital role in his life during his struggles with mental health issues and homelessness.

Responses to Santos’ Veterans Day message included pointed inquiries about the alleged scam, with one user stating, “Didn’t you screw over a vet with your scam site? Didn’t that poor vet’s service dog die because you stole the money?” These comments reflected widespread outrage at Santos’s perceived insincerity in recognizing veteran contributions while being embroiled in accusations of wrongdoing against them.

After serving a brief sentence in prison for unrelated fraud charges, Santos was released in October following a commutation of his seven-year sentence by former President Donald Trump. This decision was met with renewed anguish from Osthoff, who expressed feelings of betrayal and disillusionment. He conveyed his devastation at the prospect of Santos remaining free, especially given the allegations surrounding his treatment of veterans. Osthoff has indicated that he may pursue legal action against Santos and is seeking an apology, not only for himself but for all who have served in the military.

As the fallout from Santos’s actions continues to unfold, the situation remains emblematic of broader discussions regarding accountability, veteran rights, and the implications of leadership decisions that affect vulnerable communities. This controversy underscores significant challenges faced by many veterans, particularly regarding support and acknowledgment from public figures.