Posted on Mar 29, 2018
COL Deputy G2
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If you have ever read the book Starship Trooper- by Robert Heinlein, not the movie- only veterans are allowed to vote ( I think they are the only ones to run for office.) A “veteran” was not necessarily someone who had been a soldier, but rather someone who had volunteered for a two-year stint in “Federal Service.”
Posted in these groups: Donkey and elephant Political Organization
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Responses: 16
CSM Richard StCyr
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No, there are folks who cannot serve due to no fault of their own. My youngest son is one who would have loved to serve but couldn't due to cancer.
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LTC Peter Hartman
LTC Peter Hartman
6 y
It was a great book. I don't think it is a good idea.
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COL Deputy G2
COL (Join to see)
6 y
It’s based on federal service; not necessarily military. The government makes room for all to serve. I’m thinking Peace Corp, community based support where people with disabilities can also be included.
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CSM Richard StCyr
CSM Richard StCyr
6 y
COL (Join to see) - Good thoughts, but we already have community based support in churches and other volunteer activities.
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COL Deputy G2
COL (Join to see)
6 y
CSM, churches and volunteer activities are not “federal services.” The intent would be to give every citizen An opportunity to be a veteran no matter their physical limitations. Don’t look at word Veteran as we look at it based on military service.
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Col Joseph Lenertz
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Edited 6 y ago
As long as the definition of "federal service" is broadened to include things like Peace Corps, Red Cross, Doctors w/o Borders, and other NGO/PVO efforts, I'd support the idea. And I'd bring it down to one year. There is no reason we shouldn't ask the same question JFK asked regarding what you can do for your country. Every citizen can do SOMETHING for one year, and many more of us would have a better understanding and appreciation of the US as a result.
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COL Deputy G2
COL (Join to see)
6 y
Yes- that is my thought exactly except dropping to one year. How much can you get done in one year? First 9 months can be your initial training. But, no reason why the time can’t start after all training. The Red Cross and doctors w/o borders gives those older professionals an opportunity to gain that veteran status.
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SGM Erik Marquez
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No
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1stSgt Security Forces
1stSgt (Join to see)
6 y
This pretty much sums up my thoughts as well. Very succinct.
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