The Mission

The goal of this blog is to discuss service both military and civilian in nature as well as to advocate a new policy that requires every single American citizen to contribute to this country. I am sure this will generate a great deal of debate and, ultimately, that is the point.

I intend on exploring all of the different facets of this issue with the hope that we can discuss ways in which this country and our government can foster a larger commitment on the part of American citizens to pitch in.

I will be sharing my own experiences as someone who lived in New York City when September 11th happened, set out to join the Marine Corps the next day and served two tours of duty in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. I also want to hear from others who have served in the military as well as those who have joined other organizations to help others. The more stories we can gather, I think the better way to try to understand what makes people volunteer and serve, what effect this service has had on their lives and our society and how we can create an environment where everyone contributes.

So, with respect to Service – Why is it that only 1% of the United States population is currently serving on active duty in the military? And why is it that only certain people decide to volunteer their time for some sort of volunteerism such as the Peace Corps, Teach for America, Americorps and other organizations? What drives these people to sacrifice for others? Why don’t more Americans do their part for our country? And, most important of all, what effect does this relative lack of service have on our society, our culture and our national character?

I encourage any and all comments, plus personal anecdotes, and look forward to trying to change the way we Americans approach the conditions of our citizenship. Remember the famous JFK quote "Ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country"

I believe these are words to live by.