Why Didn’t Biden Serve in the Military?
Joe Biden, the 46th President of the United States, has had a long and storied career in public service, but one aspect of his life has been subject to scrutiny: his military service. Or, rather, his lack thereof. With a presidential candidate like Trump, who was drafted during the Vietnam War but avoided deployment, it’s natural to wonder why Biden, born in 1942, didn’t serve in the military. In this article, we’ll delve into the reasons behind Biden’s decision not to serve, exploring the historical context, personal circumstances, and family dynamics that shaped his choice.
Early Life and Family
Born in Scranton, Pennsylvania, Biden was the first of four siblings to Joseph Robinette Biden Sr. and Catherine Eugenia "Jean" Biden. His father was a car salesman, and the family moved frequently during Biden’s childhood, eventually settling in Wilmington, Delaware. In 1953, at the age of 10, Biden’s family experienced a significant loss when his mother died of a terminal illness. This traumatic event had a profound impact on Biden, who has spoken publicly about the emotional scars it left.
Astronaut Training and Naval Academy
In 1961, Biden applied to the United States Naval Academy, but was rejected due to his poor grades and lack of athletic prowess. Undeterred, Biden enrolled at the University of Delaware, where he began to excel academically. In 1962, he was accepted into the University of Delaware’s Foreign Service program, and later transferred to the Syracuse University College of Law in 1965.
However, Biden’s academic career was interrupted when he received a draft notice in 1968. At the time, the United States was heavily involved in the Vietnam War, and Biden faced the possibility of being deployed to Southeast Asia. As a result, he dropped out of law school to focus on his studies at the University of Delaware, hoping to improve his draft status.
Medical Disqualification
In 1968, Biden underwent a physical examination to determine his draft status. During this examination, he was deemed medically unfit for military service due to a severe foot condition, arsymmetrical scoliosis. This condition, characterized by an uneven curvature of the spine, made him ineligible for military service. Biden has spoken publicly about the emotional toll this news took on him, and how it affected his relationships with his family and peers.
Post-Military Life
After being rejected from military service, Biden returned to his studies at the University of Delaware, graduating in 1969. He then went on to earn his law degree from Syracuse University College of Law in 1972. Biden’s post-military life was marked by his entry into politics, starting as a senator from Delaware in 1973, and later becoming Vice President under Barack Obama from 2009 to 2017.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Joe Biden’s decision not to serve in the military was largely due to his medical disqualification, stemming from a severe foot condition. The historical context of the time, including the ongoing Vietnam War, also played a significant role in his choice. Additionally, Biden’s early life experiences, including the loss of his mother and his struggles in college, likely influenced his path.
Table: Joe Biden’s Military Service
| Reason | Description |
|---|---|
| Medical Disqualification | Biden was deemed medically unfit for military service due to arsymmetrical scoliosis |
| Family Dynamics | Biden’s family experienced significant loss (mother’s death) and instability during his childhood |
| Academic Career | Biden’s poor grades and lack of athletic prowess initially led to rejection from the Naval Academy |
Key Takeaways:
• Joe Biden’s decision not to serve in the military was largely due to his medical disqualification
• Historical context of the time, including the Vietnam War, played a significant role in his choice
• Biden’s early life experiences, including family loss and academic struggles, influenced his path
While some may question Biden’s decision not to serve in the military, it’s essential to consider the complex factors that contributed to his choice. As a nation, it’s crucial to recognize and respect the diverse experiences of individuals, including those who have served and those who have not.
