The President of the United States, Donald Trump, fulfilled the dream of DJ Daniel, a 13-year-old boy with brain cancer, by appointing him Honorary Agent of the Secret Service during his speech before Congress on Tuesday, March 5, 2025.
"Tonight, DJ Daniel, we are going to do you the greatest honor of all. I ask our new Director of the Secret Service, Sean Curran, to officially make you an agent of the United States Secret Service," Trump said to a standing ovation from lawmakers in the House.
The emotional moment was captured on video and shared on social media by the White House and the Secret Service.
In the images, DJ Daniel is seen holding his agent identification while his father, Theodis, proudly lifts him up.
"It is an honor for our agency to recognize Special Agent DJ. His desire to be an officer and his love for law enforcement are an inspiration to everyone in our agency. We could not be prouder to welcome him to the Secret Service family," expressed the agency.
A surprise acknowledgment
DJ Daniel did not expect the appointment and was surprised by the gesture from the president. In an interview with Fox News, he stated that neither he nor his family knew what would happen during the speech: "I didn't expect it. No one told us it was going to happen."
The boy, originally from Texas, was diagnosed with brain cancer in 2018, and doctors gave him only five months to live. However, six years later, he is still fighting and has been sworn in as an honorary officer at several police stations across the country.
"Since that moment, DJ and his father have been on a mission to make his dream a reality. He has been sworn in as an honorary officer on numerous occasions. The police love DJ; the departments care for him deeply," Trump emphasized in his speech.
Visit to the Oval Office
After the appointment, DJ Daniel visited the Oval Office, where he was received by the president. In images shared by the White House, the boy is seen hugging Trump. "President Trump invited him today to the Oval Office, where Special Agent Daniel gave him a 'big hug,'" the official post states.
DJ Daniel also gave an interview on the program War Room, where he defended Trump and sent a message to his critics. The journalist Jack Posobiec shared the moment on social media with the message: "DJ Daniel joins War Room and challenges anyone who mocks Donald Trump."
A story of struggle and determination
In a video released by the White House, DJ shared his experience with the illness and how he has faced challenges over the years. "I've undergone 13 brain surgeries, and each one has changed my personality. The doctors gave me five months to live, but I'm still here. I will keep going until my gas tank runs out. You never know when God is going to call you home," he stated.
His father, Theodis, also spoke with the media and shared how he has supported his son at every stage of his treatment: "I have tirelessly taken him to all his surgeries and medical appointments. It has been a challenging journey, but seeing him achieve his dream makes it all worthwhile."
Previous acknowledgments
It is not the first time DJ Daniel has received an honor. In 2022, when he was 10 years old, he was named Honorary Chief for a Day by the Miami Police Department thanks to the organization Make-A-Wish, which is dedicated to fulfilling the dreams of children with serious illnesses. On that occasion, he wore a custom-made uniform, toured the city in a patrol car, and participated in training with specialized units.
Now, with his designation as Honorary Agent of the Secret Service, DJ Daniel has achieved the highest recognition in his quest to be part of law enforcement. His story has touched millions of people and has been widely shared on social media.
Frequently Asked Questions about DJ Daniel's Appointment as Honorary Agent of the Secret Service
Who is DJ Daniel and why was he appointed Honorary Agent of the Secret Service?
DJ Daniel is a 13-year-old boy with brain cancer who was appointed Honorary Agent of the Secret Service by President Donald Trump. This heartfelt gesture took place during a speech before Congress, realizing DJ Daniel's dream of being part of law enforcement.
How did DJ Daniel react to his appointment as Honorary Agent of the Secret Service?
DJ Daniel was surprised and excited by the appointment, as neither he nor his family knew this was going to happen during Trump's speech. In an interview, DJ expressed that he did not expect to receive such recognition.
What has been DJ Daniel's struggle against his illness?
DJ Daniel was diagnosed with brain cancer in 2018, and doctors gave him only five months to live. However, six years later, he is still fighting and has undergone 13 brain surgeries. His story of resilience and determination has inspired many.
What other recognitions has DJ Daniel received before being appointed Honorary Agent of the Secret Service?
DJ Daniel has been sworn in as an honorary officer in several police stations across the country. In 2022, he was named Honorary Chief for a Day at the Miami Police Department thanks to the Make-A-Wish organization, which showcases his passion for law enforcement.
Filed under:
