Walz introduced himself to the country and touted his accomplishments.
The third night of the Democratic National Convention continued the themes of joy and freedom.
A who's who of speakers, including a surprise speech from Oprah Winfrey, headlined the night aimed to showcase vice presidential nominee Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz.
"Coach Walz" brought his energy to the crowd touting his and Vice President Kamala Harris' vision for the future of the country.
As he reflected on running for Congress in red district as a Democrat, Walz told the crowd: "Never underestimate a public school teacher."
The line got a loud cheer from the audience.
Walz says 'never underestimate' a teacher during DNC speech
Walz served in the Army National Guard for 24 years but his characterization of his service over the years has garnered some controversy -- and is the subject of criticism from his vice presidential rival JD Vance.
"I joined up two days after my 17th birthday and I proudly wore our country’s uniform for 24 years," Walz said.
Read more about Walz and Vance's military records here.
Walz, who was picked by the Harris campaign in part because of his Midwest bonafides, walked onstage to John Mellencamp's "Small Town."
He immediately thanked Harris for inviting him to be part of this campaign.
Former students who played football under Gov. Tim Walz got the crowd on their feet without scoring a touchdown.
Dressed in their red and white jerseys, the Mankato West High School alumni got the crowd clapping to The Marines' Hymn.
Walz' former student athletes come out in uniform to cheer him on
