International City/County Management Association (ICMA) Veterans’ Post

The Draft. With the U.S. constantly at war for nearly 34 years in dozens of locations on our planet, and with our military facing recruiting and retention challenges, is the next step obligatory military service? Since the Gulf War began on August 2, 1990, a tiny 1 percent of our nation's population deployed to a war zone. That's 1 in 100. In contrast, during the five years of World War II (1941-1946), about 16 million people served among a population of 132 million, or about 12 percent. Considering most service members were men, about 1 in 5 men were in uniform. In addition to a wartime draft, do we consider alternatives such as public service to build and fix our nation's troubled infrastructure and educate our children in the vital meaning of our social contract to care for each other?

Smedley Butler's statement, "War is a racket," is more relevant today. Wars often serve profit motives rather than noble causes. Consider Ukraine. Politicians and analysts call the war a "great investment”. Lindsey Graham touts the profits for the MIC. Iraq also exemplifies war for profit. Justified by false claims of weapons of mass destruction, it resulted in massive gains for companies like Halliburton and Blackwater. Government officials often move between public service and defense contractor roles, blending personal financial interests with war policies. Afghanistan's prolonged conflict became a goldmine for war profiteers. Reports from the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction found significant waste and fraud. These examples show Butler was right. Wars benefit corporations and individuals, not the nations or people involved. This reality questions the ethics of modern warfare and highlights the need to scrutinize forced wartime conscription. A wartime draft assaults individual freedom and dignity. It subjugates citizens to the state's will, forcing them into military service regardless of their beliefs or convictions. This practice violates the fundamental rights of freedom of choice and personal autonomy that democracies claim to uphold. Historically, a draft exposes state hypocrisy. While preaching equality, it preys on the vulnerable and less privileged, allowing the wealthy to evade service, thus deepening social divides and highlighting the draft's inherent injustice and discrimination. Economically, conscription is reckless. It removes productive workers from the economy, disrupts lives, and imposes long-term financial costs on individuals and the state. Sacrificing economic vitality for militaristic ventures is foolish. Militarily, the draft is counterproductive. Forcing uncommitted individuals into service leads to a less competent military. High morale and motivation, crucial for effective operations, cannot be coerced. A volunteer force that self-selects empowers the military through commitment and resilience; no amount of force can impose these traits upon a conscript. Historically, conscription has led to significant problems like desertion, non-cooperation, and sabotage, especially in unpopular conflicts. To suppress dissent, the government will escalate surveillance and implement stricter control measures, eroding trust and morale and undermining the effectiveness and cohesion of the military mission. Internationally, a draft signals a nation's failure to convince its citizens of a war’s merit or engage in global conflicts through diplomacy. Conscription undermines a nation's standing and can isolate it diplomatically. Clinging to a draft breeds resentment, undermines economic stability, and violates the principles of liberty and justice that underpin democratic governance. The draft is a moral failure.

You hear us talk and you read our writing about public works first responders. But it's more than talking and writing. Public works pros who are first responders believe it and live it. In New Hampshire, they've built a public works memorial for those who have died doing their work. (https://lnkd.in/eGu4UixH) Our advocacy for public works first responders continues in our new public policy priorities for the 119th Congress. As GAC member Kürt D. Blomquist, LtCol USAFR (Ret.) explains, the passion to have greater recognition for the distinction matches the passion that lead to New Hampshire's public works memorial. Our #EmergencyManagement PPP is here: https://lnkd.in/eWuiffCC

It's never too early to be thinking about #Juneteenth and how your organization can meaningfully observe the holiday. I shared some ideas and best practices on the Equity At Work blog:

Xenith Solutions wants to wish everyone a Happy National Public Service Week to all those who serve our local communities, and schools across the nation! Some of these points are wild so I wanted to share to spread the word (https://lnkd.in/ga8pDup6). One-third are due to retire By 2025, one-third of the federal workforce is due to retire, which means there will be a massive opportunity for young people to join the ranks. The government employs 24 million people Around 15% of the entire U.S. workforce is involved in federal, state, or local government, military, or public service — which means there are around 24 million government employees. Teachers make up the largest number Elementary school and secondary school employ the highest number of public servants. Modest growth in public service There has been modest growth in the number of people working in public service. Public service employees are paid less Public service employees still make less than their private-sector counterparts even if their wages and benefits are combined.

It is hard to believe anyone would be making their minds up today. That said, this Republican believes you should vote for Kamala Harris. Why? I'm glad you asked. Kamala Harris has shown a genuine commitment to bringing people together and focusing on what we share as Americans. She’s spoken about forming a bipartisan council of advisers to ensure voices from across the political spectrum are heard in her administration, which is something I value. She’s also proven she’s open to practical solutions on big issues like infrastructure and economic stability, issues that matter to me as a conservative who wants to see a strong, resilient America. I also appreciate her dedication to national security and economic stability, which have always been important Republican principles. For me, Kamala Harris represents a rare chance to move beyond the polarized, party-first mentality that’s been holding our country back. Supporting her feels like an opportunity to be part of a team effort toward solutions that benefit all Americans. I believe she can be a leader who respects Republican values while working to unify our nation. And just in case you need a reminder on why this is a better outcome for ALL Americans, Donald Trump often embodies the opposite of what Republicans look for in a leader. His approach to leadership has often been divisive, marked by rhetoric that amplifies polarization rather than seeks common ground. While some support him for his straightforward style, others find that this approach alienates large groups of Americans, even within his own party. Instead of building bridges, Trump’s language and policies have often intensified conflicts, whether it’s in discussions about immigration, race, or international relations. In terms of governance, Trump has almost always prioritized his personal interests and brand, creating a sense of unpredictability that can destabilize the very institutions and systems many conservatives value. His decisions often seem reactive, driven by headlines or personal grievances, rather than part of a broader, thoughtful plan. This lack of a steady approach stands in stark contrast to the values of fiscal responsibility, strong national security, and ethical leadership that many Republicans look for. For Republicans wanting someone who respects American institutions and values teamwork and pragmatic solutions, Trump’s approach may seem like the opposite path—one that fractures rather than fortifies. He's absolutely no Ronald Reagan. #RepublicansForHarris #MAGA #KamalaHarris #UnityInDiversity #LincolnProject #LoveConquersAll https://lnkd.in/gNeQ5Gh2

Strengthening Support for Our Service Members: A New Era of Resources At Maxwell Air Force Base, Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin and First Lady Jill Biden highlighted crucial new resources aimed at supporting service members and their families. From improved childcare options to comprehensive mental health services, these initiatives reflect a deep commitment to the well-being of our troops. The investments being made today are more than just policies; they’re an investment in the future strength of our Air Force. Empowering Airmen and their families means empowering the entire force to meet the challenges ahead with resilience and focus. The health and readiness of our service members are directly tied to the resources we provide them, and it's inspiring to see this leadership take proactive steps in ensuring our military community is supported at all levels. #AirForce #MaxwellAFB #MilitaryFamilies #Resilience #Leadership #SupportOurTroops Air Education and Training Command United States Department of Defense United States Air Force United States Space Force Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) https://lnkd.in/dvAyZTXU

Yesterday marked the funeral of the 39th President of the United States, the centenarian Jimmy Carter.The presence of former presidents and first ladies at the event was notable, showcasing a profound display of mutual respect despite differing political affiliations.This highlights the essence of the United States, not solely based on its economic or military prowess, but primarily on the reverence for established institutions, the state, and the nation's legacy. Reflecting on Carter's extensive post-presidential engagement spanning nearly four decades, his remarkable efforts in advocating for human rights, healthcare, education, and more stand out.   I do not remember any post-Soviet countries` former leader who has made such activity in the fileds of human rights, healthcare, education and etc. The continuous service of #US ex-presidents across various sectors underscores a different facet of greatness of the country and the inherent values that distinguish it from others.  The decision to invest in building and nurturing values that contribute to societal progress is pivotal in defining the essence of a #country. This reflection prompts profound contemplation on the choices, aspirations, and values individuals and nations aspire to cultivate for a better future.  There is indeed much to ponder upon in the realm of #leadership and legacy. #world #development #president #choice #legacy #usa #leadership

Keep in mind that "public service" covers a huge range of professions and there isn't a better time to enter the building code industry. If people have questions in how the building code industry works, I'm happy to answer these. The VA helped me find my career path after I was injured serving in the Navy. As code officials (building inspector, plans examiner, building official, fire marshal, and the the like), we play a somewhat passive role in community safety, when compared with the roles of Police and Fire personnel. We keep communities safe by verifying structures meet minimum codes. Are you someone who pays close attention to details and who possesses exceptional interpersonal skills? The code industry may be the avenue to pursue. #careers #buildingcodes #buildinginspection #publicservice #civilservice #codeofficial #iccsafe #veteransaffairs #communitysafety #safecommunities