President Joe Biden honored outgoing Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman Mark Milley at a ceremony on Friday, where the nation’s highest-ranking military officer passed the baton to his successor, Gen. Charles Q. Brown Jr.
The ceremony, filled with grandeur and tradition, featured Milley swearing in Brown as the 21st chairman. Brown previously served as the Air Force chief of staff.
In his speech, President Biden paid tribute to Sen. Dianne Feinstein, D-Calif., who passed away at the age of 90, as confirmed by her office on Friday.
Biden described her as a historic figure and trailblazer for women, emphasizing her contributions to national security, environmental protection, gun safety, and civil liberties. He expressed deep sorrow for her loss and promised to share more about her later that day.
The president also addressed the imminent government shutdown, denouncing the failure of the House to fund the government. He highlighted the negative impact of a shutdown on military families who continue to work without pay, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing the welfare of the troops over political gamesmanship.
Vice President Kamala Harris and Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin were also present at the farewell tribute to Milley.
“General Milley is not only a brilliant strategist but also a compassionate leader,” Austin stated. “We admire his wit, but most importantly, we appreciate his dedication to leading our joint force of soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines, and guardians.”
During the ceremony, Milley received his retirement certification, marking the end of a distinguished career spanning over four decades. Milley held various positions, including Army chief of staff and commanding general of the U.S. Army Forces Command.
In his remarks, Milley subtly criticized former President Donald Trump, suggesting that the armed forces’ loyalty lies with the Constitution rather than a “wannabe dictator.” He emphasized that the military’s oath is to protect the idea of America and its principles, even if it means making the ultimate sacrifice.
Trump had recently taken shots at Milley on social media, accusing him of treasonous behavior during the post-election period when Trump sought to retain power. Milley’s successor, however, received confirmation in an 83-11 vote despite a standoff initiated by Sen. Tommy Tuberville, R-Ala., over a Defense Department abortion policy.
President Biden strongly condemned the Senate hold on military nominations, deeming it entirely unacceptable and detrimental to readiness, morale, and retention. He expressed his outrage and frustration, stating that he had never witnessed anything like it throughout his long career in politics. Biden highlighted the need for a swift confirmation process to provide better outcomes for the troops affected by the political agenda of a single senator and the inaction of the remaining 47.
Secretary of Defense Austin echoed Biden’s sentiments, urging the Senate to promptly confirm all military nominees. The audience responded with applause, showing support for Austin’s call to action.
In May, President Biden announced his intention to nominate Gen. Charles Q. Brown Jr. as chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, praising him as a formidable warrior with a proud military lineage.
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