Trump praises ‘tough’ Susie Wiles in surprise tribute as White House chief receives valor award

WASHINGTON, DC: Susie Wiles, President Donald Trump’s famously low-profile White House chief of staff, stepped into the spotlight on Thursday night, May 7, after receiving the Independent Women’s Forum’s Woman of Valor award during a gala event attended by several top administration officials.

During the ceremony, held on Thursday evening, Trump surprised Wiles with a recorded video tribute in which he praised her loyalty, leadership, and toughness while also revealing that she has been battling cancer in recent weeks.

Donald Trump praises Susie Wiles for loyalty and leadership

“The woman of valor, that is Susie, come to think of it,” Trump said in the tribute.

“Not only is Susie the first female chief of staff in American history, but she's also one of the best White House chiefs of staff ever in history, I say the best, actually,” he added.

Trump used the tribute to recognize Wiles’ years of behind-the-scenes work in Republican politics and her major role in his presidential campaigns.

“I’m tremendously grateful for her friendship, loyalty, and support every single day. She's a real professional,” Trump said.

The president also credited Wiles for helping shape his administration and keeping operations running smoothly inside the White House.

“Everything we have done here in the White House has been with her help and her leadership,” Trump said. “She's respected by everybody.”

He added, “We have a problem. I say go to Susie, we owe her tremendous debt and what she's done is just incredible for our country.”

Wiles has long been known for avoiding public attention despite holding one of the most powerful positions in Washington.

Trump has previously nicknamed her the “Ice Maiden” because of her hard-nosed political style and disciplined approach behind closed doors.

Susie Wiles opens up about breast cancer diagnosis

Trump also spoke about Wiles’ recent cancer diagnosis during the emotional tribute.

“It's been especially inspiring to see her courage and toughness in recent weeks as she's been winning a battle with cancer, winning it decisively,” Trump said.

“It was an early diagnosis, so she's going to be in great shape,” he added.

Earlier this year, in March, Wiles revealed that she had been diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer after it was detected early. She also shared that doctors had given her a strong prognosis.

In a statement shared, Wiles reflected on receiving the award and spoke about continuing her work while facing health challenges.

“I am deeply honored to receive the Barbara K. Olson Woman of Valor Award,” Wiles said.

“Her strength, courage, and deep love of our country are inspiring to so many,” she added.

Wiles also said she remains committed to serving the administration and American families.

“This award is not just a personal honor but a reflection of that shared mission, and I am grateful, humbled, and more committed than ever to continuing that work,” she said.

Susie Wiles receives support from Trump administration officials

The Woman of Valor award honors the legacy of Independent Women Forum founder Barbara K Olson, who was killed during the September 11 attack on the Pentagon.

The award recognizes women who demonstrate courage, personal responsibility, and leadership.

Carrie Lukas, president of Independent Women, described Wiles as “a powerhouse of getting work done” and praised her impact on Trump’s administration.

“Wiles was instrumental in securing President Trump’s victory and continues to keep the administration laser-focused on delivering results,” Lukas said.

Several senior administration officials attended the gala in support of Wiles, including Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, Attorney General Todd Blanche, Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, Energy Secretary Chris Wright, and FBI Director Kash Patel.

Wiles became the 19th recipient of the award, joining previous honorees including Nikki Haley, Kellyanne Conway, Condoleezza Rice, Maria Bartiromo, and Ayaan Hirsi Ali.