On Thursday, US President Joe Biden appreciated the graduates of the U.S. Air Force Academy for picking “service over self” but said they now have the great honor of leading in a world that will only get more confusing in the years to come. President Biden stumbles after giving out diplomas to graduates.
Graduates, you made a noble choice to lead a life of service. Now you also shoulder a great privilege and a mighty responsibility. Leadership, yeah leadership.
In the years ahead, your airmen and guardians are going to look to you for guidance and inspiration because the world is going to get more confusing.
They’ll put their trust in you. You, in turn, must strive to always be worthy of their confidence.”
Biden told to cadets in comments on the sun-splashed field at Falcon Stadium in Colorado.
At the end of the ceremony, Biden turned to walk across the stage and stumbled. He stands on his feet with the help of an Air Force officer as well as two members of his U.S. Secret Service. Witnesses looked over in consideration before Biden returned to his seat.
When he stand on his feet, Biden indicated the spot on stage where he lost his balance. He’s fine, tweeted Ben LaBolt, the White House communications director.
During the speech, Biden spoke about how the U.S. had mobilized Western nations to stand behind Wartorn country, Ukraine against Russia and efforts to improve deterrence in the Indo-Pacific region.
He also voiced the belief that Sweden will become a NATO member. Finland and Sweden, both historically unaligned militarily, pursued NATO membership after being discouraged by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. But Turkey intercepted both European nations from joining the military association before deciding to membership for Finland while continuing to oppose Sweden.
But Biden vowed that said Sweden will get NATO membership.
The graduates of the academy will become second lieutenants in either the Air Force or Space Force. Biden said they made up the most diverse graduating class in the academy’s history and he called on them to “root out the curse of sexual assault and harassment in the military.”
Biden also said they will need the qualities of strength, creativity, steadiness, and dedication that they learned during their training at the academy to deal with international challenges.
Biden also cited the hazard of climate change and the growing use of artificial intelligence (AI).
Never forget the sacred oath you swear, and the mission you serve is something far, far greater than any person or president. It’s our Constitution, it’s our country and it’s our enduring American values.”
Biden said.
Biden also participated in the presentation of diplomas, swapping salutes and handshakes with each graduate as they were called to the stage and were cheered by their loved ones from the stands.
