I'm more heartbroken for Dad. What a terrible moment for a father. I'm sure he wanted to pummel the guy, but he had the well being of his two children amidst that mob paramount on his mind. I'll bet he felt powerless, and that's the worst feeling possible.
Actually, Mrs. Parlock said Phil took four of their children to the rally.
That is most likely true. I was just looking at it as mommy. But I know my husband would probably feel the way you described if he was in the situation.