Recent changes to JD Vance’s Wikipedia page have sparked controversy and led to explosive accusations against Minnesota Governor Tim Walz. Wikipedia has removed several of Vance’s military decorations from his profile, including the Iraq Campaign Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and the Navy and Marine Corps Sea Service Deployment Ribbon.
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Vance served four years in the US Marine Corps, including a deployment as a combat correspondent in Iraq. During his service, he received multiple honors for his contributions. However, the recent Wikipedia update on July 30 left only two medals listed: the Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal and the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal. The removals have sparked significant online backlash, with users accusing Wikipedia of bias and unfairly altering Vance’s service record. Some users on X (formerly Twitter) have criticized the edits, calling them “disgraceful” and suggesting that Wikipedia’s changes were unjustified.
Vance, an Ohio Senator and Donald Trump‘s Vice-Presidential candidate, has accused Tim Walz of “stolen valor,” alleging that Walz has misrepresented his military service. Walz has been announced as Kamala Harris’s running mate for the 2024 presidential election, intensifying the scrutiny on his military record. Vance’s accusations focus on Walz’s claims about carrying a gun “in war,” despite no evidence of Walz participating in actual combat.
The Harris-Walz campaign has defended Walz, asserting that he had substantial experience with military armaments during his 24 years of service, including training others in their use. The campaign emphasizes that Walz respects Vance’s service and has never sought to discredit any American’s military achievements.
Kamala Harris, addressing reporters in Detroit, praised all individuals who have served in the military, reinforcing her respect for their contributions. The debate over Vance’s and Walz’s military records reflects broader political tensions as the 2024 election approaches. The controversy highlights concerns about the accuracy and reliability of online information, especially regarding sensitive topics like military service.
As the political battle intensifies, the issues surrounding military records and their portrayal continue to be a contentious and closely watched aspect of the campaign.
