Bringing Frontline Wisdom to Foreign Policy Debates
Overview
For nearly 25 years, the United States has been continuously engaged in conflict around the world, fought entirely by a volunteer force. Since 9/11, over 5 million veterans have served in the U.S. military. While this all-volunteer military has created a skilled and professional fighting force, it has also distanced broader American society from the realities of war and the veteran experience
Without the draft, wartime service is no longer a shared societal experience, making it less likely for Americans to have a veteran in their family or even know one personally. As a result, the wartime and veteran experience has become increasingly disconnected from public consciousness. This separation has also made it easier for lawmakers to commit to war, as fewer citizens bear the direct burden.
The Veterans in Foreign Policy Initiative seeks to bridge this gap by amplifying veteran voices and shedding light on their experiences. It aims to bring a diverse range of veterans—both enlisted service members and officers—into foreign policy debates, moving beyond the perspectives of a select few retired senior officers. By elevating these voices, the initiative strives to foster a deeper public understanding of war’s impact and ensure that those who have served play a meaningful role in shaping U.S. foreign policy.
Veteran Voices in Foreign Policy
“Older men declare war. But it is youth that must fight and die.”
Herbert Hoover
Veterans from all ranks—enlisted and officers—deserve a place in foreign policy debates, not just a handful of retired senior officers. Bringing in these diverse voices gives the public a clearer picture of war’s impact and ensures those who’ve served have a real say in shaping U.S. foreign policy. Follow this page for articles, events, and discussions featuring veterans’ perspectives on foreign policy.
Military and Veteran Wellbeing
“You fought for the country, and the country has to hold up its agreement to you. This is the cost of war…don’t penalize veterans for your budgeting error.”
Jon Stewart
From the lasting health effects of burn pits and war-related injuries to subpar military base housing and a growing mental health crisis that has led to nearly 50,000 veteran suicides per year, the wellbeing of service members and veterans must be a core part of war planning—and a fundamental responsibility of the country they served. Follow this page for articles, events, and discussions on this critical issue.
