2 things that never happened with presidential pardons and UFOs

Veterans are being called to maintain their critical thinking skills—not on the battlefield, but in the digital space. As misinformation and fake imagery continue to circulate widely online, experts emphasize the importance of staying informed and skeptical.

One recent example involves false claims about presidential pardons. Social media posts allege that President Joe Biden pardoned his son, Hunter Biden, and that past presidents, including Jimmy Carter and George H.W. Bush, pardoned their own family members. While Biden did issue a presidential pardon, the claims about Carter and Bush are entirely false. Carter’s brother and Bush’s son were embroiled in controversies, but neither was criminally charged or pardoned.

Another viral incident highlights the ease with which fabricated content spreads. A video of a low-flying drone over New Jersey, touted as everything from a UFO to a “Star Wars” ship, garnered millions of views before its creator admitted it was digitally produced. Despite disclaimers, the video misled countless viewers.

The takeaway for veterans and the broader public is clear: verify information before sharing it. The rapid spread of misinformation on platforms like TikTok and Threads underscores its potential to influence opinions and decisions.

Veterans are trained to assess threats critically, and that same mindset is essential when navigating the digital world. Staying sharp, questioning what you see, and avoiding digital deception are vital skills in today’s fast-moving online environment.