Democratic VP Nominee Tim Walz Defends Military Service Amid GOP Attacks

Democratic vice presidential nominee Tim Walz has defended his military record after attacks from Republicans, led by his election rival, Sen. JD Vance of Ohio, who has accused him of stolen valor.

Walz’s Military Service

Walz served in the National Guard for 24 years. He enlisted two days after his 17th birthday, inspired by his father’s service in the Korean War. While in the military, he supported forward units but was not deployed to a combat zone.

Walz retired from the Minnesota National Guard in 2005 to run for Congress, winning a House seat the following year.

GOP Attacks and Walz’s Response

Republicans have attacked Walz’s military record, with Vance accusing him of misrepresenting his service. Vance’s criticism stems from a video clip of Walz discussing gun control and referring to carrying weapons “in war.”

Walz clarified that he misspoke in the video, and a Harris campaign spokesperson confirmed this.

Walz has defended his service, stating that he is “damn proud” and that he served for the same reason as all other military personnel: “We love this country.”

He has also condemned the attacks on his military record, saying that it is wrong to denigrate anyone’s service and thanking Vance for his service despite the criticism.

Key Points

• Democratic vice presidential nominee Tim Walz has defended his military record amid Republican attacks.
• Walz served in the National Guard for 24 years, including overseas assignments, but was not deployed to a combat zone.
• Walz has clarified that he misspoke when he referred to carrying weapons “in war” in a video discussing gun control.
• Republicans have accused Walz of lying about his service, which he has strongly denied.
• Walz has condemned the attacks on his military record and expressed gratitude to all those who have served, including his opponent, Sen. JD Vance.

Walz’s military service has become a focal point in the vice presidential campaign, with both supporters and detractors weighing in on his record. Walz continues to defend his service and emphasize his commitment to the country.