Was Biden in the Military?
Joe Biden, the 46th President of the United States, has been a prominent figure in American politics for over four decades. Throughout his career, he has been known for his commitment to public service and his advocacy for various social and political causes. One question that has been raised about Biden’s background is whether he served in the military. In this article, we will explore the answer to this question and provide an overview of Biden’s military service.
Direct Answer: Yes, Biden was in the military
Joe Biden did serve in the military. In 1968, Biden graduated from the University of Delaware with a Bachelor’s degree in history and political science. Shortly after, he was drafted into the United States Army and served from May 1973 to January 1974.
Biden’s Military Service
Biden’s military service was a brief but significant period in his life. Here are some key facts about his time in the military:
- Service Branch: Biden served in the United States Army.
- Rank: Biden held the rank of Major in the Army Reserve.
- Assignment: Biden was assigned to the Army’s 4th Battalion, 3rd Field Artillery Regiment, 12th Armored Division, at Fort Lewis, Washington.
- Duration: Biden served for approximately eight months, from May 1973 to January 1974.
- Honorable Discharge: Biden received an honorable discharge from the Army.
Biden’s Military Experience
Biden’s military experience was marked by a series of events that had a significant impact on his life and career. Here are some key highlights:
- Deployment: Biden was deployed to Vietnam, but he did not see combat. Instead, he was stationed at Fort Lewis, Washington, where he served as a liaison officer between the Army and the Department of Defense.
- Injuries: Biden was involved in a car accident in 1972, which left him with a broken leg and a serious injury to his knee. This injury forced him to undergo surgery and led to his eventual discharge from the Army.
- Discharge: Biden’s discharge from the Army was due to his injuries, which made it impossible for him to continue serving in the military.
Aftermath of Biden’s Military Service
Biden’s military service had a significant impact on his life and career. Here are some key points:
- Return to Politics: After his discharge from the Army, Biden returned to politics and was elected to the New Castle County Council in Delaware in 1972.
- Congressional Career: Biden went on to serve in the United States Senate from 1973 to 2009, where he became known for his advocacy on issues such as healthcare, education, and foreign policy.
- Presidential Campaign: In 2020, Biden ran for President of the United States and won the election, becoming the 46th President of the United States.
Comparison to Other Presidents
Biden’s military service is notable in comparison to other Presidents. Here are some key statistics:
| President | Military Service |
|---|---|
| Joe Biden | 8 months, Army Reserve |
| Donald Trump | 5 years, Army Reserve |
| Barack Obama | 2 years, Illinois National Guard |
| George W. Bush | 5 years, Texas Air National Guard |
| Bill Clinton | 2 years, Army Reserve |
Conclusion
In conclusion, Joe Biden did serve in the military. His brief but significant service in the United States Army had a lasting impact on his life and career. From his deployment to Vietnam to his eventual discharge due to injuries, Biden’s military experience was marked by a series of events that shaped his perspective and informed his future work in politics. As the 46th President of the United States, Biden’s military service is an important part of his legacy and a testament to his commitment to public service.
