COLORADO SPRINGS, USA – President Joe Biden, 80, tripped and fell on stage on Thursday, June 1, 2023, at the United States Air Force Academy.
The incident occurred just after delivering an inspiring commencement address to the graduating cadets.
The President, who had just extended his congratulations to a fresh-faced cadet with a handshake, was making his way back to his seat when he took an unexpected tumble.
A seemingly inconspicuous black sandbag on the stage appeared to have caught him off guard, leading to the stumble.
Despite the unexpected fall, the oldest serving president in the history of the United States got back on his feet, seemingly unhurt.
The quick response from Air Force personnel ensured President Biden was swiftly helped back up, with no apparent need for further assistance.
As he regained his footing, the President maintained his grace, humorously pointing towards the small black sandbag that had been the cause of his mishap.
“I guess I should watch my step better,” President Biden quipped, seemingly unfazed by the minor fall.
Despite this hiccup, the President’s health has been a topic of public interest, especially considering his advanced age and upcoming re-election campaign in 2024.
The most recent medical report from the White House’s official doctor, however, confirmed Biden’s physical fitness, with a regular exercise routine being part of his daily regimen.
This isn’t the first time President Biden has been in the news for a stumble.
In November 2020, soon after his election victory against then-incumbent Donald Trump, he sustained a foot injury while playfully engaging with one of his pet dogs.
However, like today’s event, it was a momentary setback from which he recovered quickly.
This episode at the Academy, while surprising, didn’t detract from the spirit of the ceremony or the vigor of the President’s address.
The incident was quickly forgotten as the commencement continued, a testament to the resilience of both the Commander in Chief and the graduating cadets he came to honor.
