Governor Tim Walz served in the Army National Guard for over 24 years.
He started in the Nebraska Army National Guard
and then transferred to the Minnesota Army National Guard.
In 2003, his battalion deployed in support of Operation During Freedom.
During this time, governor Tim Waltz was stationed in Italy.
He retired in May 2005.
Governor Tim Waltz’s highest military rank was an E9,
which is a surgeon major. He obtained the rank on September 17th, 2004.
It’s correct to say that he served as a command sergeant major,
but it’s not correct to say he retired as a sergeant major.
He was required to complete coursework
at what’s called the Sergeant Major’s Academy.
He did not complete this coursework.
So a day before he retired, uh,
he was administratively reduced in rank to master sergeant.
At the end of the day,
Governor Tim Walz was over his 20 year Mark in the Army National Guard.
Governor Tim Walz could have retired whenever he wanted
after that 20 year Mark. Military ranks and records can be confusing.
What we try to do is gather those facts,
make them clear to you so that you can decide.
I’ve written an article about Governor Tim Walz’s record
that you can read if you want to learn more.