Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz's military record has recently become a focal point of discussion following his selection as Vice President Kamala Harris' running mate on the Democratic presidential ticket. Republicans have raised questions about Walz's portrayal of his time in uniform and his departure from service.
Walz served a total of 24 years in various branches of the Army National Guard before retiring in 2005. He enlisted in April 1981 at the age of 17 and underwent Army infantry basic training before graduating from high school. Throughout his service, he held roles in different state National Guard units, including Texas, Arkansas, Nebraska, and Minnesota.
As he prepared for a congressional bid in 2005, Walz announced his retirement from the National Guard in May of that year. Despite retiring before his unit's deployment order to Iraq in 2006, some Republicans have criticized his timing, suggesting he aimed to avoid being sent to a combat zone.
Walz achieved the rank of command sergeant major before retiring, but his personnel files indicate a reduction in rank to master sergeant for benefits purposes post-retirement. Minnesota National Guard officials clarified that Walz retired before fulfilling requirements associated with his promotion.
Ohio Sen. JD Vance, a Marine Corps veteran and Donald Trump's running mate, has been among those questioning Walz's service. Vance labeled Walz's departure from service ahead of his unit's deployment as 'stolen valor garbage.'
In response, the Harris campaign defended Walz's military record, highlighting his advocacy for veterans during his tenure in the U.S. House. They emphasized Walz's commitment to supporting military families and veterans, citing his extensive service background.
Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, a former Naval intelligence officer, criticized the GOP's focus on Walz's military service as a diversion tactic. Buttigieg argued that the Trump campaign was avoiding discussions on their policies by engaging in debates over Walz's retirement and rank promotions.
