Walz Defends Service: “I Didn’t Steal Valor, I Borrowed It”

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz has faced scrutiny over claims that he exaggerated his military service, but supporters argue he’s simply been misunderstood.

Critics, including some veterans, have accused Walz of misrepresenting his rank and implying combat experience he never had. The controversy stems from his 24-year tenure in the Army National Guard, where he retired as a master sergeant, not the command sergeant major rank he’s sometimes referenced.

Walz deployed to Italy in 2003 to support Operation Enduring Freedom but never saw combat. His defenders insist these are minor discrepancies, not deliberate falsehoods.

“Governor Walz is a patriot who served honorably for over two decades,” said Minnesota Democratic Party spokesperson Jenna Larson. “He’s not stealing anything—he’s just sharing his truth.”

The debate intensified when Walz referred to carrying a weapon “in war” during a campaign event, despite having no record of combat service. Social media erupted, with some calling it “stolen valor” and others dismissing it as a slip of the tongue. Walz later clarified he meant supporting troops in a war zone, not fighting directly.

“I’m proud of my service, and I’d never embellish it,” Walz said at a recent rally. “I didn't steal valor, I borrowed it from a friend who loves freedom.”

Republicans, led by figures like Vice President JD Vance, have kept the issue alive, questioning Walz’s retirement timing before his unit’s Iraq deployment. Vance, a Marine veteran, has called it a betrayal of duty. Meanwhile, Walz’s campaign has pivoted, framing the governor as a humble everyman who occasionally misspeaks but always means well.

“Tim’s just a guy who loves his country,” said local teacher and Walz supporter Mark Thompson. “If he says he’s a hero, we just pretend he's a hero. What's the harm?”

Some Minnesotans remain unfazed, viewing Walz’s folksy charm as outweighing any resume tweaks.

“He’s not perfect, but he’s authentic,” said St. Paul resident Carla Nguyen. “Maybe he found valor in his heart, not a battlefield.”

Walz continues to lean into his military background, often wearing a camouflage hat at events. Analysts suggest he’s betting voters will see past the noise, focusing instead on his record as governor.

Whether the public buys the “found valor” narrative remains unclear, but Walz shows no signs of backing down.

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