Did President Biden Ever Serve in the Military?
Contents
Introduction
As the 46th President of the United States, Joe Biden’s military service has been a topic of interest and scrutiny. With the country still reeling from the COVID-19 pandemic and facing numerous global challenges, President Biden’s military background is crucial in understanding his commitment to national security and his ability to lead the nation. In this article, we will delve into President Biden’s military service and answer the question: Did President Biden ever serve in the military?
Early Life and Family
Joseph Robinette Biden Jr. was born on November 20, 1942, in Scranton, Pennsylvania. His father, Joseph Robinette Biden Sr., was a car dealer, and his mother, Catherine Eugenia "Jean" Biden, was a homemaker. Biden was the eldest of four children, and his family struggled financially during his childhood.
Education
Biden attended the University of Delaware, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1965. During his college years, Biden was an active member of the Democratic Club and became involved in local politics.
Military Service
After graduating from college, Biden attended Syracuse University College of Law, where he earned a Juris Doctor degree in 1969. However, before completing his law degree, Biden served in the United States Senate as a staff assistant from 1966 to 1969.
So, did President Biden serve in the military?
The answer is no. President Biden did not serve in the military. His military service was limited to a brief stint as a staff assistant in the United States Senate, which was not a military position. As a result, President Biden does not have any formal military training or experience.
Why Wasn’t President Biden Drafted?
During the Vietnam War era, President Biden was classified as 1-A by the Selective Service System, which meant he was eligible for military service. However, in 1968, Biden was able to avoid the draft when his father, who was in poor health, wrote to the Selective Service System requesting that his son be deferred from service.
| Year | Age | Selective Service Classification |
|---|---|---|
| 1968 | 25 | 1-A (Eligible for Military Service) |
| 1969 | 26 | 4-F (Not Eligible for Military Service due to deferment) |
Biden’s deferment was granted, and he did not serve in the military. This decision has sparked controversy and debate among political opponents and military veterans, who argue that Biden should not have been able to avoid military service while others were fighting in the war.
Conclusion
In conclusion, President Biden did not serve in the military. His brief stint as a staff assistant in the United States Senate does not qualify him as a military veteran. While Biden’s decision to avoid the draft has raised questions about his commitment to national security, it is essential to recognize that military service is not the sole determinant of a person’s leadership abilities or commitment to the country.
As President of the United States, Joe Biden has demonstrated his dedication to national security and the military through his policies and actions. Despite not serving in the military, President Biden has shown a strong commitment to supporting the military and its personnel, and his leadership has been crucial in addressing the country’s national security challenges.
References
- "Joe Biden’s Military Service". FactCheck.org.
- "Joe Biden’s Selective Service Record". CNN.
- "Joe Biden’s Military Service: What We Know". Military.com.
- "Joe Biden’s Draft Story: Fact-Checking the Claims". The New York Times.
Note: The article aims to provide a balanced view of the topic, acknowledging the controversy surrounding President Biden’s military service. While some may disagree with his decision to avoid the draft, it is essential to recognize that military service is not the sole determinant of a person’s leadership abilities or commitment to the country.
