President Joe Biden Addresses U.S. Military Academy Graduates at West Point

President Joe Biden delivered a powerful speech on Saturday at the U.S. Military Academy commencement ceremony, urging graduates to tackle global threats and uphold American ideals like never before. Addressing the newly minted Army second lieutenants at West Point, Biden emphasized the diverse challenges they will face, from supporting Ukraine against Russia’s invasion to aiding humanitarian efforts in Gaza.

Biden praised the graduates for their role in stopping Russian President Vladimir Putin’s aggressive ambitions in Europe and commended their efforts to assist in defending Israel from attacks by Iran. He made it clear that American service members will not be deployed on the battlefield in Ukraine, but emphasized the importance of equipping and training Ukrainian forces.

In his address, Biden reminded the cadets that their allegiance is to the Constitution, not to any individual or political party. He emphasized the importance of upholding their values and defending the ideals of freedom, stating, “Ideas need defenders to make them real. That’s what you are all about. You must keep us free at this time like none before.”

The President also touched on the issue of sexual assault and harassment in the military, noting that rates have declined for the first time in a decade, but stressing that more work is needed to address these issues.

As is customary, Biden took the time to individually salute and shake hands with each graduate, absolving them of minor offenses committed during their time at the academy. He humorously added, “the superintendent can clarify what minor means.”

Overall, President Biden’s speech at the U.S. Military Academy commencement ceremony was a call to action for the graduates to be steadfast in their commitment to defending the nation and upholding the values of freedom and democracy.