In defense: Why are we questioning military service of candidates? Re: “Critics are pouncing on Walz’s military record,” Aug. 26 news story Master Sergeant (retired) Tim Walz served in the Army National Guard for 24 years, period. To make less of that is disingenuous and disrespectful! I left the Army as a private first class (E-3) but my discharge form listed my permanent rank as private (E-2).