In his final address to U.S. service members at Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall, President Biden expressed gratitude for their dedication and integrity, highlighting the diverse and demanding missions they've undertaken during his presidency. He commended their strength and, notably, their integrity in carrying out these tasks.
Biden's speech, delivered just days before President-elect Trump's inauguration, echoed themes from his farewell address to the nation, where he described his presidency as a "great honor." He lauded the military as the "greatest fighting force in history," emphasizing their character, honesty, and commitment.
The president revisited the Afghanistan withdrawal, a decision he maintains was correct despite the inherent difficulties. He acknowledged the pain of losing service members, particularly during the withdrawal, and stated he carries that burden daily. Biden's handling of the withdrawal, which resulted in the deaths of 13 U.S. service members, has drawn considerable criticism.
Shifting to the conflict in Ukraine, Biden praised the military's swift response to Russia's invasion, highlighting their role in supporting Ukraine, training its forces, and bolstering NATO's presence in Eastern Europe. He framed these actions as a demonstration of America's commitment to freedom and its allies.
Biden also addressed the recently announced Israel-Hamas ceasefire, claiming to have laid the groundwork for the agreement months prior. Interestingly, President-elect Trump also claimed credit for the ceasefire, attributing it to the perceived strength of his incoming administration and its commitment to peace negotiations.
In a heartfelt tribute, Biden acknowledged the sacrifices made by military families, recognizing the missed holidays, relocations, and constant adjustments they endure. He closed by reiterating his belief in the military's strength, rooted not only in their training and equipment but also in their commitment to American values.
Prior to Biden's address, Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin and General CQ Brown, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, offered their own expressions of gratitude for the president's service as part of the commander-in-chief farewell tribute.
