Joe Biden Sparks Backlash for Hastily Exiting Medal of Honor Ceremony

Joe Biden has faced criticism after abruptly leaving a Medal of Honor ceremony at the White House, leaving war hero Larry Taylor alone on stage. The 80-year-old President quickly departed the East Room after presenting the highest military honor to 81-year-old retired Army Captain Larry Taylor, who was celebrated for his bravery during the Vietnam War.

While Taylor was visibly emotional as he received the medal, Biden appeared less moved as he reportedly made his way to the exit before the closing benediction. While some speculate that Biden intended to give Taylor the spotlight, the situation created an awkward moment as Taylor stood alone on stage.

This incident comes after Biden received criticism for removing his mask moments before greeting Taylor, despite First Lady Jill Biden testing positive for Covid-19 the day before. The President’s hasty departure is just one in a series of incidents that have led to accusations of disrespect towards the military. Notably, Biden faced backlash for repeatedly checking his watch during a ceremony honoring soldiers killed in an ISIS-K suicide bombing in Kabul earlier this year.

A Daring Rescue in Vietnam

Taylor was awarded for his bravery during the Vietnam War, where he risked his life to save his comrades in June 1968. On that night, Taylor flew his attack helicopter to rescue a team that had become surrounded by enemy troops. Faced with limited visibility, Taylor communicated with the trapped soldiers via radio, using their flares to locate them. He and a pilot in another helicopter then conducted a daring low-level attack on the enemy, providing cover for the trapped team.

As their ammunition ran low and the enemy continued to advance, Taylor devised a plan to distract the enemy and create an opportunity for the team to escape. He guided his wingman to fire rounds along one flank while he fired on the other, using the helicopter’s landing lights to confuse the enemy. With great personal risk, Taylor then landed his helicopter, allowing the team to rush on board before whisking them away to safety.

This extraordinary rescue mission, improvised on the spot, had never been attempted before. Taylor’s actions saved lives and earned him numerous combat decorations, including the Silver Star and two Distinguished Flying Crosses.

Reactions and Fallout

Biden’s swift exit from the Medal of Honor ceremony has drawn criticism from military veterans and supporters. Many argue that his behavior exhibited a lack of respect towards the veteran. Former Navy SEAL Shawn Ryan called Biden an “[Expletive] idiot” and questioned his general disrespect for others.

Military supporters online have expressed outrage, with one individual whose deceased father is buried in Arlington Cemetery condemning Biden for leaving Taylor alone on stage. This incident, along with previous blunders and apparent disrespect towards the military, has intensified the frustration towards the President.

Despite wearing a face mask upon entering the ceremony, Biden removed it while standing alongside Taylor, even though his wife had tested positive for Covid-19. The President continues to test negative and remains asymptomatic.

The White House has not yet commented on the backlash and criticism surrounding Biden’s conduct at the ceremony.