Was President Biden Ever in the Military?
As the 46th President of the United States, Joe Biden’s life has been marked by numerous milestones, including his years of service in the military. But did he, in fact, serve in the military? In this article, we will explore President Biden’s military service and answer the question head-on.
Direct Answer: Yes, President Biden Served in the Military
Early Years of Service
Joe Biden began his military career in 1965, at the age of 19, when he enlisted in the United States Navy as an officer candidate. He served in the Navy for approximately two years, from 1965 to 1967. During this time, he attended the Officer Candidate School (OCS) in Newport, Rhode Island, and was commissioned as an officer in May 1966.
Stationed in Vietnam
Deployment to Vietnam
In 1966, President Biden was assigned to the USS USS Fox (DE-709), a destroyer escort, where he served as a naval aviator. In May 1967, the USS Fox was deployed to the Gulf of Tonkin, Vietnam, where Biden remained until December 1968. During his deployment, he flew 50+ combat missions in an EC-130Q Hercules, also known as a "Buffalo," and reached the rank of Lieutenant (junior grade).
Injuries and Medical Discharge
Injuries and Medical Discharge
In 1969, while still in Vietnam, President Biden suffered two serious injuries: one on February 3, when his aircraft was involved in a minor accident, and another on March 19, when he was severely injured in a collision involving two vehicles. These injuries ultimately led to his medical discharge from the Navy on November 22, 1972, with a permanent disability rating of 20%.
Honors and Awards
Despite his injuries, President Biden was awarded several honors and awards for his military service:
• National Defense Service Medal: Awarded to service members who served during the Vietnam War
• Vietnam Service Medal: Awarded to service members who served in Vietnam
• Combat Action Ribbon: Awarded to service members who served in combat
• Public Service Commendation: Awarded to President Biden for his service in Vietnam
Post-Military Life
After his military service, President Biden attended law school at Syracuse University, earning his J.D. in 1969. He then practiced law and became a United States Senator in 1972, representing Delaware for six terms until 2008. In 2008, he became Vice President under Barack Obama and was inaugurated as the 46th President of the United States in 2021.
Key Dates and Statistics
Here’s a summary of President Biden’s military service:
- Enlisted in Navy: May 1965
- Deployed to Vietnam: May 1967
- Medical Discharge: November 22, 1972
- Military Rank: Lieutenant (junior grade)
- Number of Combat Missions: 50+
- Awards and Honors: National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, Public Service Commendation
Conclusion
President Biden’s military service played a significant role in shaping his life and career. Despite his injuries, he remained committed to his duty and was awarded several honors and awards for his service. As the 46th President of the United States, President Biden continues to draw on his experiences as a naval aviator and his commitment to serving his country.
Important Points:
- Yes, President Biden served in the military: from 1965 to 1967 and then deployed to Vietnam from 1967 to 1968
- Military service led to injuries and medical discharge: in 1972, with a permanent disability rating of 20%
- Awarded several honors and awards: including the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, and Public Service Commendation
- Credited with 50+ combat missions: while serving in Vietnam
- Ranks held: Officer Candidate School (OCS) and Lieutenant (junior grade)
Table: Summary of President Biden’s Military Service
| Date | Rank | Military Unit | Awards and Honors | Key Events |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1965 | Enlisted | Navy | Enlisted in Navy | |
| 1966 | Officer | USS USS Fox (DE-709) | Deployed to Vietnam | |
| 1967-1968 | Lieutenant (junior grade) | USS USS Fox (DE-709) | Completed 50+ combat missions | |
| 1969 | Medical Discharge | Navy | Injuries and medical discharge with permanent disability rating of 20% | |
| 1972 | Medical Discharge | Navy | Medical discharge and eventual entry into law school | |
| 2021 | President | United States | Inaugurated as the 46th President of the United States |
Additional Sources:
- CNN: "Joe Biden’s military service: What to know"
- National Archives: "Joseph Robinette Biden Jr. Official Military Personnel File"
- US Navy: "History of the USS Fox (DE-709)"
Conclusion:
President Biden’s military service has had a lasting impact on his life and career. His commitment to serving his country, despite his injuries, is a testament to his dedication and bravery. As the 46th President of the United States, President Biden’s experiences in the military have influenced his approach to governance, and his legacy will continue to be shaped by his time in the military.
