The Issues, No. 12 - Mandatory Service to the Country

In yesterday's posting I expressed my "Final Thoughts About the Federal Government" and concluded with a recommendation about working for the federal government. Today, I'm going to take it one step further and suggest that the Constitution be amended to require every American, at the completion of their formal education be required to spend two years working full time in some capacity for the federal government. Service can be in the military or the civilian service working for an Executive Branch agency, the Congress, or the federal courts. And, there should be no exceptions except for individuals who are not able to function mentally or are severely physically disabled.

The reason I am making this suggestion is because I believe that today there are too many of our people who take our country, and what it stands for, for granted, and have absolutely no appreciation for what it takes to keep our democracy going. Many of these individuals seem to believe they are above the military and the government employees who are working to ensure that our country stays strong and free and are out there only to satisfy their own personal needs and desires. They appear to have no sense of country or interest in anyone other than themselves.

I believe mandatory service would help to create an America where everyone would feel they have contributed to what makes the country great. I think there would be a renewed pride in the country where everyone would feel united by the ideals and the workings of our democracy. The result would be a prouder and more concerned population who just might put their country and their fellow citizens first, before their own personal goals and desires. I think it would make America even better than it already is.