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In a nation as diverse and complex as the United States, the task of uniting all our people is difficult but essential. Veterans and their families, with their unique experiences and dedication to service, can help lead this effort and be pivotal in fostering unity. Here are six ways veterans can help Americans overcome differences and bring them together.
Keep Informed
Knowledge is power, and being well-informed is the first step toward meaningful engagement. Veterans should strive to stay updated on current events, understand the nuances of different political and social issues, and seek out reliable sources of information -- even sources that challenge our current world view. This helps veterans contribute thoughtfully to discussions, counter misinformation, and assist others in understanding the complexities of the world -- especially issues tied to national security. An informed veteran can act as a beacon of clarity in a sea of confusion, helping guide their fellow citizens toward a more accurate understanding of our national challenges and opportunities.
Foster Civility
In today's polarized climate, productive discussions and debates are often overshadowed by hostility and division. Veterans can set an example by engaging in respectful and constructive conversations, even when faced with opposing viewpoints. By prioritizing civility, veterans can encourage a culture of respect and understanding. This approach not only helps in finding common ground, but also in showing that it is possible to disagree without being disagreeable. Civility in everyday conversations -- in person or online -- can be a powerful tool in helping solve our communities' problems and fostering a more united America.
Reject Violence
Hostile foreign influencers would like us to believe the people on the opposite side of our political positions are our enemies. Nothing could be further from the truth. While Americans may disagree about abortion, guns and immigration, the people on the other side of the issue are still our fellow citizens who are worthy of human dignity and respect. Domestically, violence is never a solution to our problems. Veterans, who have experienced the harsh realities of war, understand this better than anyone and can play a critical role in advocating for peaceful resolution of disputes and rejecting any form of politically motivated violence. By promoting adherence to the rule of law and deliberative legislative processes, veterans can help steer the nation toward more peaceful and productive means of addressing differences.
Volunteer
A veteran's oath to support and defend the Constitution doesn't end when they take off the uniform for the last time. A great way to continue service to our country, states and communities is to volunteer to serve again. By volunteering, veterans can use their leadership skills and patriotism to help local nonprofits and by helping support our system of self-government. One of the very best ways to do this is to serve as a volunteer election official and help fellow citizens exercise their right to vote. The Vet the Vote campaign -- a nonprofit, nonpartisan effort to recruit veterans to be the next generation of election poll workers -- is a fast and easy way to get connected with your county election officials. Through active engagement, veterans can help address local issues, foster community spirit, and demonstrate the importance of civic participation to their fellow citizens.
Promote the Common Good
Veterans understand the concept of putting the needs of the mission and the team above those of the individual. By promoting policies and initiatives that benefit the common good, veterans can help unite Americans around our shared goals and values. By emphasizing collective well-being over individual gain, veterans can inspire others to look beyond personal interests and consider what is best for the nation as a whole.
Put the Country First
Above all, veterans can lead by example by always putting the country first. This means prioritizing national interests over partisan divides and narrow political gain. Veterans can help foster seeking unity over division and working toward solutions that benefit all Americans. By embodying this principle, veterans can inspire others to adopt a similar outlook, fostering a sense of shared purpose and commitment to the nation's well-being.
In conclusion, veterans possess the experience, leadership and dedication needed to play a pivotal role in uniting America. Our oath to support and defend the Constitution does not end with the end of active duty; it continues through our efforts to bring Americans together and strengthen the fabric of our society in the communities where we live.
-- Joe Plenzler is a retired Marine Corps officer and combat veteran. He is on the board of We the Veterans and Military Families and is a co-founder of the Vet the Vote campaign to recruit veterans and their family members to be election poll workers. More than 140,000 veterans and their family members have answered the call to serve again.
