Calay News
President Joe Biden has been embroiled in controversy after some accused him of showing disrespect to Medal of Honor recipients and their families by leaving the ceremony before the closing prayer.
On Tuesday, Biden bestowed the nation’s highest military honor on former Army Capt. Larry L. Taylor, a helicopter pilot who saved four of his comrades in a daring rescue mission during the Vietnam War.
Some conservative commentators and social media users claimed that the US president did not remain for the entire ceremony, abruptly leaving as the chaplain delivered the final blessing.
However, these claims are extremely misleading.
Video clips shared by critics, including Rogan O’Handley and Benny Johnson, were edited to give the impression that Biden left suddenly and without saying goodbye.
The full video of the ceremony shows Biden in attendance for approximately 28 minutes. During that time, he praised Taylor and his family, presented him with the medal, and gave him a hug. He then thanked everyone for coming and expressed his best wishes to the troops.
The president then walked off the stage with Taylor and his wife, followed by Vice President Kamala Harris and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin. They did not leave the room but instead moved to a nearby area where they greeted and took photos with Taylor’s family and other guests.
The closing prayer was delivered by the chaplain while Biden and others were still in the room.
The president participated in the ceremony until the end and showed his appreciation for Taylor’s heroism and service. Claims that he withdrew early are unsubstantiated and do not reflect the reality of his participation in the event.
