Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz (D) is facing harsh criticism from his former battalion commander over claims about his military service. Lt. Col. John Kolb has accused the Democratic vice presidential candidate of misrepresenting his rank and achievements in the National Guard.
Kolb didn’t mince words in his statement, saying he doesn’t regret Walz’s early retirement from the Guard. He suggested Walz’s departure made room for better leadership, specifically praising Thomas Behrends as “the right leader at the right time.”
The former commander highlighted Behrends’ sacrifices, noting he left behind family and business to lead soldiers. In contrast, Kolb implied Walz chose to avoid such commitments.
Kolb directly challenged Walz’s claims about his rank, stating, “He did not earn the rank or successfully complete any assignment as an E9.” He called Walz’s assertions “an affront to the Noncommissioned Officer Corps.”
Using a pointed analogy, Kolb added, “I can sit in the cockpit of an airplane, it does not make me a pilot. Similarly, when the demands of service and leadership at the highest level got real, he chose another path.”
These accusations come amid growing scrutiny of Walz’s military record, including questions about the circumstances of his retirement before his unit’s deployment to Iraq. As the controversy continues, it could impact Walz’s role in the upcoming election.
