Lawmakers Discuss Importance of Bridging Military-Civilian Divide Ahead of Memorial Day

May 26, 2024 - In a recent interview on "Face the Nation," Rep. Pat Ryan highlighted the concern over the disconnect between active-duty service members and the rest of the American population. He emphasized that the small percentage of less than 1% of Americans serving in the military poses a significant challenge to the democratic fabric of the nation.

Ryan, an advocate for addressing this issue, discussed the efforts made by Congress to prioritize military recruitment within the annual defense bill. He expressed deep concern about the recruiting challenges faced by various branches of the military and stressed the need to address this as a matter of priority.

Bipartisan Efforts in Honoring Veterans

Furthermore, Rep. Mike Waltz, a veteran himself, emphasized the importance of bipartisan initiatives to honor and recognize the contributions of veterans. He shared the tradition of hand-washing the Vietnam Veterans Memorial as a powerful symbol of respect and remembrance for those who have served the nation.

Increasing Veteran Representation in Congress

Ryan and Waltz both underscored the significance of having more veterans in Congress, advocating for increased representation of individuals with military or national service experience. They expressed the hope of having a more diverse group of representatives who can effectively relate to and advocate for the interests of the broader American population.

Moreover, the conversation delved into the concept of national service beyond the military, with a focus on engaging young people in activities that foster leadership, discipline, and a sense of shared purpose. Waltz proposed incentivizing national service by offering benefits to young individuals who commit to a period of service after completing their education.

Rethinking Service as a National Imperative

Both representatives stressed the need to redefine and promote service as a cornerstone of national identity, encompassing a range of activities such as environmental conservation, community assistance, and support for the elderly. They emphasized the importance of instilling a spirit of service, collaboration, and commitment to a cause greater than oneself among the youth of the nation.