Trump surprises famously low-profile power player with tribute as she steps out for rare public appearance

By Fox News · Fox News

FIRST ON FOX: Susie Wiles, President Donald Trump’s White House chief of staff, received the Independent Women’s Forum’s valor award on Thursday night as the president honored his longtime aide with a surprise video tribute. "The woman of valor, that is Susie, come to think of it. Not only is Susie the first female chief of staff in American history, she's also one of the best White House chiefs of staff ever in history, I say the best, actually. I'm tremendously grateful for her friendship, loyalty, and support every single day. She's a real professional," said Trump in the video message, which was shared with Fox News Digital, to Wiles on Thursday evening during the ceremony. The award honors the legacy of Independent Women Forum founder Barbara K. Olson, who was killed in the Sept. 11 attack on the Pentagon , and recognizes women who demonstrate the commitment and courage to advance economic liberty, personal responsibility and political freedom. Trump spotlighted Wiles making history as the first female White House chief of staff, following a long career in Republican politics and key roles in Trump’s 2016 and 2020 campaigns. TRUMP NAMES SUSIE WILES AS FIRST FEMALE WHITE HOUSE CHIEF OF STAFF IN HISTORY "I am deeply honored to receive the Barbara K. Olson Woman of Valor Award. Her strength, courage, and deep love of our country are inspiring to so many. I have the privilege of serving President Trump, our administration and my dedicated colleagues who fight every day to protect liberty, expand opportunity, and strengthen the lives of American families," Wiles told Fox News Digital in a statement. "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," Wiles added. Trump continued in his surprise message during Thursday’s gala that she has been an inspiration while battling cancer. "It's been especially inspiring to see her courage and toughness in recent…