Staff Reports
In a leaked Zoom call with moderate House Democrats, President Joseph Biden went on a tirade, using his late son, Beau Biden, to insult and belittle the military service of Colorado Congressman Jason Crow. Biden seemed unhinged as he dismissively asked Crow to compare his combat experiences with his son’s Bronze Star. It was a desperate attempt by Biden to assert his own accomplishments and put down Crow, who had expressed concerns about the president’s campaign.
Instead of addressing the concerns raised by Crow and other moderate Democrats, Biden lashed out and launched a full-scale attack on Crow’s military background. He specifically mocked the congressman’s Bronze Star, which the campaign did not deny or dispute. Biden’s disparaging remarks about Crow’s Bronze Star were unbecoming of a president, clearly aimed at downplaying the representative’s multiple combat tours.
Joe Biden seems to think that servicemembers are suckers and losers if they dare ask him questions, and any personal price they paid is worthless😠
President Biden Says Beau Biden's Bronze Star Is Worth More Than Representative Jason Crow's Combat Award https://t.co/lkeug1LKir
— Shayadjinn (@Shayadjinn1) July 17, 2024
It is important to note that Beau Biden’s military experience was vastly different from that of Crow. Beau served in the Delaware Army National Guard in a non-combat role as a JAG officer. He spent a year in Iraq in an advisory capacity, predominantly dealing with legal matters and rules of engagement for American forces. While Beau received a Bronze Star and a Legion of Merit, it is important to acknowledge that he did not participate in any combat missions or lead troops in battle.
On the other hand, Representative Jason Crow has a commendable combat record. He joined the Army in 2002, rising to the rank of Captain before leaving in 2006. Crow served in Iraq during the initial invasion in 2003 as a platoon commander in the 82nd Airborne Division. He was awarded the Bronze Star with the “V” device for valor for his actions during the Battle of Samawah. Crow later transferred to the 75th Ranger Regiment and deployed to Afghanistan twice, working closely with the Joint Special Operations Task Force.
For President Biden to diminish Crow’s combat experience and suggest that Beau’s non-combat role was more significant is both infuriating and disgraceful. As a combat veteran, it is deeply offensive to witness a president belittling the actions and sacrifices made by those who have served in the line of fire.
Furthermore, there seems to be a misconception about the Bronze Star among civilians and even some military members. While it is often associated with combat valor, the Bronze Star can also be awarded for outstanding achievement or meritorious service in a combat theater. This means that individuals who serve in administrative roles or perform exceptional duties in combat zones are eligible for the medal. However, it is important to note that the “V” device distinguishes valorous actions in direct combat, making it a higher honor.
In my opinion, the Bronze Star should strictly be an award for heroism and valor in combat. Its dilution as recognition for meritorious service detracts from the significance of the medal for those who risked their lives in the heat of battle. Instances such as President Biden’s comparison of Crow’s award to his son’s only serve to undermine the importance and respect rightfully given to acts of valor.
To be clear, there is a distinction between Beau Biden’s and Jason Crow’s military service and awards. While Beau may have been exposed to hazards such as burn pits, Crow faced armed enemy forces and engaged in intense combat. President Biden’s disregard for Crow’s achievements and the sacrifices he made reflects a lack of appreciation for the realities of warfare.
President Biden owes an apology to Jason Crow and all the other warfighters who have put their lives on the line to defend our nation.
Matt Funicello is a Marine Corps combat veteran and former law enforcement officer from Southern California. He actively serves in Republican politics and has been a political activist for the past decade. He is a strong advocate for the Second Amendment and the preservation of our rights. Matt is a devoted husband and father of two sons, and he fights passionately for the future of our great Republic.
