Democratic vice presidential nominee Tim Walz is standing firm in defense of his military record following a barrage of attacks from the Trump campaign. Speaking at the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) event in Los Angeles today, Walz directly addressed the criticism, expressing pride in his 24 years of service in the Army National Guard.
The controversy began when Republican vice presidential candidate JD Vance suggested that Walz had exaggerated his military credentials and accused him of abandoning his unit ahead of its deployment to Iraq in 2005 to avoid serving in a war zone. These claims have sparked a heated debate, with Walz’s supporters rallying behind him and his detractors questioning his decision to leave the military to pursue a congressional career.
Walz, who served in the Army National Guard before leaving the service in May 2005 to run for Congress, refuted the allegations made by Vance, stating that his decision was driven by a commitment to serve his country in a different capacity. “I’m proud of my service,” Walz declared, emphasizing that his time in the National Guard was marked by dedication and a deep sense of duty. He dismissed the attacks as politically motivated and called on his opponents to respect the service of all veterans.
Walz’s military career has been a cornerstone of his political identity, and his supporters argue that the criticism is an unfair attempt to undermine his integrity. “I served alongside some of the finest people I’ve ever known, and I did my duty. I’ve never shied away from a challenge, whether in uniform or in public office,” Walz stated in his address.
In a lighter twist, the National Bobblehead Hall of Fame and Museum in Milwaukee has announced that it will honor Walz with a limited-edition bobblehead. The figurine, which will sell for $30, is set to be a collector’s item, with only 2,024 being produced. The museum, known for its unique tributes to public figures, has already created bobbleheads for former President Donald Trump and his running mate, JD Vance, and is in the process of producing one for Vice President Kamala Harris.
The Walz bobblehead is expected to be available for shipment in December, just in time for the holiday season. The announcement has added a humorous yet celebratory note to what has been a contentious political campaign.
As Walz continues to navigate the political attacks on his military service, the creation of his bobblehead serves as a reminder of his enduring popularity and the respect he commands in both military and political circles.
