Biden Encourages West Point Graduates to Confront Unprecedented Threats
President Joe Biden addressed graduates of the U.S. Military Academy on Saturday, emphasizing the unique challenges they will face in safeguarding the country’s ideals both at home and abroad.
Biden commended the graduating class for being called upon to address threats around the world, from supporting Ukraine to assisting with humanitarian efforts in Gaza and defending Israel against attacks from Iran.
He highlighted the unprecedented demands placed on the military, stressing the importance of their roles in various global conflicts simultaneously.
While reaffirming the decision not to deploy American troops to Ukraine, Biden praised their efforts in helping Ukrainian forces and preventing Putin’s aggressive actions in Europe. He also lauded U.S. forces for assisting Israel during recent attacks from Iran.
Before the cadets took their commissioning oaths, Biden emphasized their allegiance to the Constitution rather than any individual or political party. He encouraged them to uphold the values they learned at West Point amidst the current political and social challenges.
Biden stressed the importance of defending ideas and maintaining freedom, acknowledging the progress made in addressing sexual assault in the military while acknowledging the need for further improvement.
During the graduation ceremony, Biden personally greeted and commended each graduate, humorously absolving them of minor offenses committed during their time at the academy.
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