PDF Summary:On Heroism, by Jeffrey Goldberg

For those who cherish the values of democracy, Jeffrey Goldberg's discussion of On Heroism offers a sober warning. In this work, Goldberg examines the conduct of former President Donald Trump, illustrating his questionable grasp of military ethics and his repeated efforts to leverage the armed forces for personal political gain. The author contrasts Trump's behavior against the principled actions of individuals like John McCain, James Mattis, and Mark Milley, who remained dedicated to upholding constitutional principles.

Goldberg portrays the crucial role these patriots played in ensuring the military retained its integrity—safeguarding the nation from authoritarian overreach during Trump's presidency. The author's analysis underscores the delicate balance required to maintain democracy and the essential duty of citizens, both military and civilian, to protect its institutions.

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Goldberg emphasizes the unique challenges faced by Milley as the leader of the Joint Chiefs, noting that his predecessors never had to deal with a president trying to overturn a legitimate election and potentially using the armed forces to maintain power. The author highlights Milley's efforts to calm Nancy Pelosi's concerns regarding the military's dedication to disregarding any illegal or senseless orders from Trump, and describes his subsequent meeting with top Pentagon officials in charge of nuclear operations to review the procedures for initiating a launch and to emphasize the criticality of adhering to the established hierarchy of command.

Goldberg argues that Milley took on a role well beyond the usual scope of the chairman, acting as a protector in the face of a president whose behavior could not be anticipated. The writer thoroughly details Milley's conversation with his Chinese counterpart, where he assured that the United States was not planning any offensive action and emphasized the military's commitment to adhere to the control of civilian authorities, despite any unrest resulting from the electoral process. The writer argues that genuine worries about the possibility of impulsive actions as the term of the presidency neared its end motivated the decision, despite some opposition.

Goldberg depicts Milley as a complex figure who, despite facing early obstacles, acted resolutely to protect the sanctity of the Constitution and to defend the military from a dangerous leader.

Context

• The 2020 U.S. presidential election was marked by significant controversy, with widespread claims of election fraud by then-President Trump, which were not substantiated by evidence. This created a tense political environment and concerns about the potential misuse of military power.
• The process for launching nuclear weapons involves multiple layers of verification and authorization to prevent unauthorized or impulsive use. The President has the sole authority to order a nuclear strike, but military leaders are involved in the execution process, which includes checks to ensure the order is legal and valid.
• War crimes are serious violations of the laws and customs of war, which include acts such as intentionally killing civilians, torturing prisoners, and taking hostages. These are defined by international treaties like the Geneva Conventions.
• Effective communication and crisis management strategies are essential to de-escalate potential nuclear confrontations and ensure that all diplomatic avenues are exhausted before considering military options.
• Historically, the U.S. military has maintained a clear separation from political processes, especially during transitions of power. The situation post-2020 election was unique in that there were fears the military might be drawn into political conflicts, which would have been a significant departure from established norms.
• Nancy Pelosi, as Speaker of the House, is second in the presidential line of succession and plays a crucial role in legislative oversight of the executive branch, including military actions.
• Reviewing nuclear procedures is not unprecedented and has been done in the past during times of heightened tension or when there are concerns about the stability of leadership. This ensures that all involved are clear on the protocols and the importance of following them precisely.
• The U.S. military adheres to a code of ethics and conduct that emphasizes honor, integrity, and respect for human rights. Military leaders are responsible for upholding these values and ensuring that service members act in accordance with international laws and standards, including the laws of war.
• During this period, U.S.-China relations were tense, with concerns about potential military confrontations in the South China Sea and over Taiwan. Assurances of non-aggression were critical to maintaining stability between the two nuclear powers.
• The Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff is the highest-ranking and senior-most military officer in the United States Armed Forces and serves as the principal military advisor to the President, the Secretary of Defense, and the National Security Council. This role is advisory and does not include operational command authority over the armed forces.

The peril to the safeguarding of the Constitution and the equilibrium of the American democratic system.

Goldberg contends that Trump represented an unprecedented threat to the democratic bedrock of the United States, showing a lack of respect for democratic norms, tendencies toward authoritarianism, and a willingness to erode constitutional safeguards for his own political gain. The writer argues that the behavior of Trump, culminating in the provocation of the Capitol disturbance on January 6, endangers the foundational values of the Republic.

Trump's disdain for democratic norms and authoritarian inclinations posed a threat to the foundational equilibrium of the Republic.

Goldberg argues that the Trump administration marked a dangerous departure from the democratic norms the United States has long maintained, displaying tendencies toward authoritarianism and a complete disregard for the essential tenets and structures that underpin the nation's governance. The author emphasizes how Trump's disparagement of the free press, attempts to delegitimize the judiciary, affinity for authoritarian leaders, and relentless dissemination of falsehoods and deceptive information reveal his disregard for the principles of democracy. Goldberg argues that the manner of communication and behaviors exhibited by Trump eroded trust in democratic institutions, encouraged divisiveness in politics, and strengthened extremist factions, leading to the culmination of these factors on January 6.

Trump attempted to cling to power through undemocratic methods by challenging the outcome of a valid election.

Goldberg offers an in-depth examination of Trump's efforts to overturn the results of the 2020 election, suggesting that these actions constituted a direct assault on the foundational democratic values of the United States. The author details how the ex-president continuously spread unfounded allegations of widespread election fraud, pressured state officials to change the results of the vote, and incited his supporters, culminating in a violent attack on the Capitol. Goldberg presents a troubling account of Trump's actions leading up to January 6, emphasizing his intensifying attempts to hold onto power and his apparent willingness to employ military force for his own political ends. Goldberg argues that Trump's actions are more reflective of an aspiring authoritarian than of a leader selected via democratic means.

Other Perspectives

• The characterization of Trump's actions as undemocratic is subjective and depends on one's interpretation of his motives and the legality of his methods.
• Trump's communications with state officials were within his rights to seek clarification and ensure election integrity.
• The claim that Trump incited the attack could be seen as an interpretation of his words and actions, rather than a direct causation, as incitement typically requires a clear and direct call to imminent lawless action.
• It could be argued that the presence of military and National Guard personnel in Washington, D.C., was a standard precaution in response to heightened security concerns, rather than a specific attempt by Trump to use military force for his political benefit.
• The term "authoritarian" implies the use of force or coercion to maintain power, which may not accurately describe Trump's reliance on political and legal strategies to question the election results.

Trump attempted to leverage the armed forces' strength for political gain while encroaching on the constitutionally protected freedoms of citizens.

This section argues that Trump's employment of the military for political gain undermines the essential principle of civilian control over the military and establishes a dangerous precedent for future leaders who may seek to undermine democratic norms. Goldberg presents multiple examples of Trump's efforts to politically capitalize on the military, including his push for a grand military parade in Washington D.C., his attempts to compel military leaders to publicly support his agenda, and his frequent threats to deploy soldiers to deal with domestic unrest. Goldberg also emphasizes the ex-leader's fixation on a particular statute, noting his repeated mentions of potentially employing it to suppress demonstrations, regardless of their peacefulness. The author emphasizes the Lafayette Square episode as a prime example of the president's willingness to use military personnel to create opportunities for staged photographs and to participate in political theater, underlining that the forceful eviction of peaceful protesters was purposefully orchestrated to provide a backdrop for the president's infamous Bible-holding photograph.

Other Perspectives

• Decisions to deploy the military domestically are often complex and may be based on assessments of security needs rather than political considerations.
• The invocation of statutes like the Insurrection Act by a president does not inherently undermine civilian control, as the act itself is a legal mechanism that falls within the purview of presidential powers granted by Congress.
• The assertion that a precedent has been set may overlook the role of public opinion and civil society in holding leaders accountable, which can serve as a deterrent to future leaders considering similar actions.
• Organizing a military parade does not necessarily equate to leveraging the armed forces for political gain; it can be seen as a form of patriotism and national pride.
• The term "threaten" could be interpreted as subjective, implying intent to intimidate or coerce, whereas the actual intent may be to communicate a preparedness to take necessary actions to maintain law and order.
• The statute's consideration could be argued as a deterrent to prevent the escalation of protests into riots, rather than an active measure to suppress peaceful demonstrations.
• The clearing of Lafayette Square may have been coincidental with the president's photo opportunity, and not orchestrated specifically for that purpose.

Individuals such as Mattis and Milley maintained unwavering loyalty to the principles enshrined in the Constitution, even when faced with difficulties arising from President Trump's administration.

The section highlights the crucial roles played by individuals including McCain, who, in concert with Mattis and Milley, protected the core values of democracy and the constitutional integrity against the overreach of Trump. Goldberg argues that these individuals, motivated by a deep commitment to their nation, recognized the threat posed by Trump and remained unwaveringly loyal to their constitutional pledge, even when it meant potential clashes with the president and his backers.

They acknowledged the serious risk Trump presented and stood firm in their commitment to protect democratic institutions.

Goldberg argues that the actions taken by McCain, Mattis, and Milley went beyond simple courage, showing a deep commitment to the core values that underpin American democracy. Goldberg argues that these individuals recognized their duty to protect the foundational principles of the nation and maintain the strength of the organizations they served. McCain consistently voiced his objections to the undemocratic tendencies and breaches of democratic norms linked to Trump, even in the face of opposition from his own party colleagues. Mattis opted to resign rather than betray his principles or execute commands he believed would be detrimental to the nation. Milley navigated a treacherous political landscape, ensuring that the military was not employed to subvert the Constitution or suppress dissent, in adherence to the regulations that dictate the deployment of the armed forces.

Goldberg argues that the behavior of these figures is a testament to their capacity to oppose the most powerful rulers when those in power overstep their bounds and threaten the foundations of democracy. Goldberg argues that these key figures are essential luminaries, underscoring the necessity for resolute leadership prepared to make considerable personal sacrifices in defense of democratic institutions against efforts to undermine or destroy them.

Other Perspectives

• The notion of deep commitment could be challenged by examining any inconsistencies in their past behavior or decisions that may not align with the protection of democratic institutions.
• McCain's record shows that he supported Trump's agenda on various occasions, suggesting that his opposition was not absolute.
• The act of resignation itself is a personal choice and may not reflect broader institutional safeguards; it relies on individual morality rather than systemic checks and balances.
• There may be differing opinions on what constitutes suppression of dissent, and some might argue that the military's actions or inactions during this period could have inadvertently influenced public discourse or civil activity, even if not intentionally subversive.
• While these figures may have shown courage, it's possible that their actions were also motivated by personal or political interests, rather than purely by dedication to democratic values.
• Standing firm against powerful rulers can sometimes be interpreted as obstructionism or partisanship, rather than a defense of democracy.
• The concept of resolute leadership may inadvertently support the idea of concentrating power in individuals, which can be antithetical to the principles of democracy that emphasize distributed power and accountability.
• The emphasis on personal sacrifice may overshadow the importance of collective action and the role that movements, organizations, and parties play in upholding democracy.

The task involved ensuring that the military remained impartial and committed to the principles outlined in the Constitution throughout Trump's presidency.

This part of the text describes how Mattis, Milley, and their peers in military leadership diligently upheld their commitment to the Constitution, ensuring its protection from attempts to manipulate it for political ends by the will of any one individual. Goldberg emphasizes the vital importance for a democracy to sustain a neutral military and points out the dangers that arise when the military's foundational principle of impartiality is at risk of being undermined by a president.

Individuals such as Milley devised tactics to shield the armed forces from Trump's efforts to use them for his political objectives.

Goldberg details the efforts of Mattis, Milley, and their peers to safeguard the integrity of the military from exploitation by Trump for his own political gain. The author elaborates on Mattis's firm resistance, during his leadership of the Department of Defense, to President Trump's efforts to meddle in military affairs, use the military for orchestrated public relations events, and employ troops in operations targeting U.S. citizens. Goldberg portrays Mattis as a staunch proponent of the principle that the military's allegiance should rest upon a bedrock of professional behavior and a commitment to its longstanding tradition of neutrality.

Upon assuming leadership of the Joint Chiefs, Milley faced challenges of a considerably larger scale, as Goldberg details. Following the departures of Mattis and Kelly, President Trump's resolve to use military force to achieve his political goals intensified. Goldberg depicts Milley's efforts to educate Trump on the limitations and regulations of warfare that define the scope of a president's authority when it comes to the utilization of military personnel. The author highlights that in the critical time between the election and the January 6 Capitol disturbance, Milley provided reassurance to members of Congress and high-ranking defense personnel, asserting the military's steadfast commitment to the Constitution and confirming that they would not participate in any illegal activities to help maintain the former president's hold on power.

They emphasized the criticality of the military's dedication to the foundational values of the country rather than swearing loyalty to an individual ruler.

Goldberg emphasizes the unwavering dedication of individuals like Mattis and Milley to uphold the neutrality of the military and their fidelity to the Constitution rather than pledging personal loyalty to any single leader, including the president. The author stresses the importance of acknowledging that the involvement of the armed forces in political affairs poses a threat to the integrity of the judiciary and the stability of democratic institutions in a democratic society.

Goldberg highlights how Mattis consistently communicated to Trump the principle that the military's loyalty lies with the nation rather than the president, and he persistently opposed Trump's efforts to employ the military for the augmentation of his own authority. The author details Milley's frequent emphasis on the military's obligation to remain faithful to the Constitution while staying neutral in political affairs, as evidenced by his remarks both in open forums and behind closed doors. Goldberg argues that in the aftermath of the Lafayette Square incident, Milley made a conscious effort to highlight this issue in his public appearances, official engagements, and conversations with lawmakers.

Other Perspectives

• Prioritizing the country's foundational values over loyalty to a single leader could, in some situations, lead to a conflict of interest if the actions of the leader are deemed to be in the nation's best interest by the prevailing legal or political standards.
• The judiciary's integrity and democratic institutions' stability may also be threatened by other factors, such as partisan politics, corruption, or external interference, not solely by military involvement.
• The principle of civilian control of the military implies that military leaders are subordinate to civilian leadership, which could be interpreted to mean that the president's directives should carry weight as they are part of the nation's democratically elected leadership structure.
• While Milley may stress the military's duty to uphold the Constitution and remain neutral in politics, there can be situations where what constitutes political neutrality is subject to interpretation, potentially leading to actions that some may view as politically charged.
• If Milley's efforts were not accompanied by tangible changes in military policy or behavior, one might argue that his actions were symbolic rather than substantive.

They established protective measures to prevent the use of the military against U.S. citizens or for advancing individual political goals.

This section of the text scrutinizes the firm actions taken by Mattis and Milley to safeguard the military from being exploited by Trump for objectives that were unconstitutional or politically motivated. Goldberg describes Mattis's efforts to thwart the deployment of active-duty troops to the U.S.-Mexico border and his resistance to the idea of using military personnel to suppress protests in several U.S. cities. The writer highlights Milley's subtle efforts to diminish the number of troops in Washington and to guarantee that their conduct honored the rights of nonviolent protesters during the unrest after the passing of George Floyd.

Goldberg argues that Milley's position gained significant importance following the 2020 election, recognizing the risk of Trump using military force to disrupt the peaceful transfer of power. The author details Milley's conversations with government officials, his assurances to allies abroad, and his warnings to dedicated Pentagon staff about the dangers of compromising the nation's core principles of governance. Goldberg emphasizes the crucial role played by Milley's skillful employment of diplomatic tact, clandestine operations, and explicit warnings in protecting the military's honor, preventing its exploitation for Trump's personal agendas.

Practical Tips

• Encourage transparency in your local community by starting a 'Community Watchdog' newsletter. Use it to share information about local governance decisions, providing a platform for residents to stay informed and engaged, thus promoting the use of power for the community's benefit rather than personal gain.
• Volunteer as a legal observer at local protests to ensure the rights of protesters are upheld. Legal observers are trained to watch and document interactions between law enforcement and protesters, providing an impartial account that can be used to protect civil rights. You can reach out to local civil liberties organizations to find training sessions and learn how to become an effective observer.
• Strengthen your community ties by organizing a 'Neighborhood Assurance' event. This can be a casual gathering where neighbors discuss ways to support each other and uphold community standards. Use this opportunity to establish a neighborhood watch program or a community support network that can act in times of need, ensuring that the collective principles of safety, support, and respect are upheld.
• Practice delivering clear, explicit warnings when you observe actions that cross ethical boundaries. If you're in a group setting where someone suggests an action that feels wrong to you, speak up with a firm yet respectful warning. You might say, "I understand the goal we're trying to achieve, but this approach could have negative consequences that outweigh the benefits. Let's consider some alternatives."

Attacks on American service members and veterans by Trump

This section of the narrative underscores a persistent pattern of disdain and antagonism that Trump has displayed towards American military personnel and veterans, highlighting his apparent lack of appreciation for their contributions and his failure to understand the struggles they have endured. Goldberg argues that the behavior of Trump not only displayed distinctive traits but also a deep-seated contempt for those committed to serving the nation.

Trump displayed a significant absence of empathy and sensitivity toward those dedicated to military service.

Goldberg's assertion is that Trump repeatedly demonstrated an absence of regard and compassion for military personnel and veterans, underscoring a profound disconnection with those who have dedicated their lives to military service. The author chronicles multiple instances where Trump belittled or mocked individuals who have made considerable sacrifices for their country, including his infamous insult directed at a respected senator who was a former prisoner of war and his outspoken criticism of Senator Tammy Duckworth, a veteran who lost her legs while serving in Iraq, calling her a "phony."

Goldberg also emphasizes the approach of the president, marked by a lack of empathy and a practical mindset, during his engagements with the families of fallen soldiers. The writer depicts the uncomfortable interactions of the nation's leader with grieving relatives, his baseless claims of contacting almost every one of them, and his alleged belief that financial compensation could mitigate the grief arising from losses in war. Goldberg argues that these occurrences demonstrate Trump's deep unawareness of the emotional and psychological weight borne by those serving in the armed forces and their loved ones.

Trump questioned the loyalty and sacrifices of those injured in battle, casting aspersions on their commitment to their country.

The section of the text examines how Trump has persistently belittled individuals who have endured harm, been taken prisoner, or died in the line of duty for their country. Goldberg posits that Trump's disdain for certain individuals stems from his fear of appearing weak or vulnerable, a state that clashes with his own interpretations of what constitutes strength and masculinity when confronted with the hardships of others.

The writer details the scornful comments made by Trump towards John McCain, his choice to forgo paying respects at the Aisne-Marne American Cemetery, and his infamous labeling of fallen and imprisoned military members as "losers" and "suckers," highlighting his contempt for those in the military who were taken prisoner or lost their lives in battle. Goldberg also recounts how the former president instructed Milley to ensure that Captain Luis Avila, a veteran who had sustained severe injuries, was not seen in public, which reflects a deep discomfort on the part of the ex-commander-in-chief with the public manifestation of war's toll. Goldberg argues that these assaults not only demonstrate an absence of courage in the individual involved but also undermine the fundamental values of accountability and self-sacrifice that are foundational to the armed forces.

Practical Tips

• Create a visual tribute online to celebrate the courage of service members. Use social media platforms to share stories, photos, or artwork that highlights the bravery and sacrifices of those who have served in the military. Encourage friends and followers to contribute their own tributes, creating a collective space of appreciation and respect.
• Create a personal recognition system where you acknowledge and appreciate the sacrifices of individuals in service roles. This could be as simple as saying thank you to service members you meet, writing appreciation letters to local fire stations or police departments, or even just mentally acknowledging the risks they take when you hear a siren or see a news report.
• Develop a personal policy to actively engage with and support organizations that advocate for the rights and visibility of people with disabilities. Research local or online groups that work towards these goals and contribute through donations, volunteering, or spreading their message. Your involvement can help shift public perception and create a more inclusive environment for everyone.

Other Perspectives

• The interpretation of Trump's actions as stemming from fear could be a misreading of his intentions, which might instead be aimed at shifting the narrative around military engagement and its consequences.
• Trump's decision not to pay respects at the Aisne-Marne American Cemetery may have been due to logistical concerns, such as security risks or transportation issues, rather than a lack of respect.
• His actions may have been influenced by advisors or political strategists who recommended against public displays that could be emotionally taxing for both the president and the audience.
• The values of accountability and self-sacrifice are deeply ingrained in military culture and are unlikely to be significantly impacted by the remarks of any single individual, regardless of their position.

Trump leveraged military symbols and figures to advance his political objectives, despite his disdain for them.

This section of the book depicts Trump's use of the military to bolster his political image, despite demonstrating minimal concern for the individuals in uniform. Goldberg argues that while Trump was drawn to the symbolic majesty and the representation of authority that the military's pageantry provided, he did not genuinely value or acknowledge the individual soldiers who make up the armed forces.

The writer highlights the former leader's fascination with martial parades, his tendency to be seen with people dressed in military uniforms at events, and his practice of employing combative language when speaking about his political opponents. Goldberg sets these actions in opposition to Trump's belittling of military members and veterans, his disregard for military commanders, and his avoidance of the severe consequences and toll on human life associated with armed conflict.

Goldberg argues that the use of the military by Trump to further his political goals was manipulative and harmful to the integrity of the armed forces. The former president's actions threatened the military's image of impartiality and posed a risk to diminishing public trust by attempting to infuse political bias into the military establishment.

Practical Tips

• Use the principle of 'show of strength' in your community or workplace by organizing a showcase of your team's skills or achievements. This could be an annual event where different departments or groups present their best work, akin to a parade, which can boost morale and foster a competitive, yet collaborative, spirit.

Other Perspectives

• It is a common practice for political leaders to associate with military symbols and figures as a sign of national strength and unity, not necessarily for personal image enhancement.
• Actions such as signing legislation that benefits veterans and active-duty military personnel could be seen as a form of acknowledgment and value for their service.
• The effectiveness of Trump's communication style could be argued to lie in its simplicity and memorability, which can be important in political messaging.
• Trump has publicly expressed admiration for the military on numerous occasions, praising their courage and dedication.
• He appointed several military officers to high-ranking positions within his administration, suggesting he valued their leadership and experience.
• The president may have believed that the role of commander-in-chief involves shielding the public from the brutal realities of war to prevent distress or panic.
• Public trust in the military has historically been high and could be resilient to political controversies.

The importance of the armed forces' fidelity to the Constitution and their connection with civilian leadership.

Goldberg's final point in his book emphasizes the critical importance of a strong alliance between those in military service and the civilian population within a democratic society. The military's loyalty, he argues, should be unwaveringly dedicated to the core tenets of democratic governance and constitutional law, instead of allegiance to an individual leader. Goldberg argues that by adhering to this principle, individuals like Mattis and Milley took action to protect it, even when it meant opposing a leader whose behavior threatened the foundations of democracy.

The military's loyalty must be pledged to democratic institutions and the Constitution instead of being devoted to a sole leader.

The final part of the book underscores the critical importance of maintaining a neutral armed force within a democratic society and the dangers posed by any leader who seeks to erode this essential principle. Goldberg suggests that within the structure of the United States, it is the civilians' duty to lead, fund, and oversee, while the military faithfully executes commands that are legally given. The success of this model is dependent on the military's independence from political interference and the dedication of its leaders to maintain their allegiance to the nation's core values over any individual leader, including the president.

Individuals such as Mattis and Milley strove to uphold these principles when faced with Trump's authoritarian inclinations.

Goldberg highlights the meticulous efforts of Mattis, Milley, and their peers to maintain the military's neutrality and resist Trump's attempts to exploit the armed forces for his own political gain. He underscores their unwavering dedication to upholding the principles of the Constitution and the significance of remaining neutral in political affairs. Goldberg argues that by making public statements, conducting secret missions, and directly confronting challenges, these individuals were crucial in protecting the military from being used as a tool to erode democratic values or to encroach upon the freedoms belonging to the people of the United States.

Context

• The U.S. Constitution establishes a system of checks and balances and civilian control over the military. This framework is designed to prevent any single branch of government, including the executive, from wielding excessive power.
• The Posse Comitatus Act is a U.S. federal law that limits the powers of the federal government in using federal military personnel to enforce domestic policies within the United States, underscoring the importance of keeping the military separate from political affairs.
• These may refer to undisclosed operations or internal actions taken to prevent misuse of military resources or personnel. Such missions could involve strategic planning to counteract potential orders that might compromise democratic principles or the military's integrity.

The military is charged with providing skilled, unbiased advice and executing lawful commands, all while remaining detached from political involvement.

Jeffrey Goldberg's analysis centers on the unwavering commitment of the armed forces to their primary mission, which encompasses providing skilled, unbiased advice to civilian leaders and executing lawful orders, all the while maintaining an unequivocal separation from political partisanship. The armed forces' effectiveness and legitimacy are deeply rooted in the trust of the public, which is at risk of swift erosion should there be an impression that the military is being exploited for political purposes.

Goldberg's final thoughts underscore the fragility of the United States' democratic framework during Trump's presidency, underscoring the critical importance of perpetual vigilance in safeguarding the country's core democratic establishments. Jeffrey Goldberg argues that the steadfast commitment of the military to the Constitution and its resolute resistance to political attempts that threaten its core values is the cornerstone of this endeavor.

Practical Tips

• Develop a habit of conducting thorough research before making important decisions, mirroring the military's emphasis on informed advice. Start by identifying a decision you need to make, then gather information from multiple sources, ensuring you look at the issue from various angles. For instance, if you're deciding on a new car purchase, don't just consider the price and aesthetics; research safety records, long-term reliability, and consumer reviews to make a well-rounded decision.
• Use a decision-making flowchart for ethical dilemmas to mimic the structured decision-making process of the military. When faced with a tough choice, your flowchart could start with questions like "Does this align with my values?" and "Will this harm anyone?" This tool can help you make choices that are both logical and in line with your moral compass.
• Encourage critical thinking about military engagement in politics by writing opinion pieces for local newspapers or blogs. Highlight the importance of maintaining a non-political military and the potential risks of politicization, using historical examples and current events to illustrate your points without taking a political stance.
• You can foster trust in the armed forces by educating yourself on their roles and responsibilities. Start by accessing publicly available resources such as government websites, military news outlets, and educational materials that explain the functions and duties of the armed forces. This knowledge will enable you to have informed conversations with others, contributing to a more accurate public perception and trust.
• Support transparency by volunteering to help local non-profit organizations that aim to bridge the gap between the military and civilians. These organizations often need assistance in organizing events, creating informative content, or conducting outreach programs that educate the public on the non-political aspects of military service, thereby strengthening public trust.
• Volunteer with organizations that aim to increase voter registration and turnout, as active participation is a cornerstone of a healthy democracy. By helping others to register and understand the importance of their vote, you contribute to a more robust democratic process. You could assist at voter registration drives, provide information on voting rights, or offer transportation to polling stations on election days.
• Create a habit of fact-checking information before sharing it on social media to combat misinformation. This means every time you come across a politically charged post or news article, take a moment to verify its accuracy through credible sources. By doing so, you contribute to an informed electorate, which is the backbone of a healthy democracy.
• Start a book club focused on historical and contemporary writings about constitutional law and civil service. By reading and discussing works that explore the Constitution's role in American life, you'll foster a greater appreciation for the principles that service members are sworn to protect. This can also lead to informed discussions about the importance of the military's allegiance to the Constitution.
• Create a personal mission statement that aligns with your core values. This will serve as a compass for your behavior and choices, much like a military code of conduct. If community service is a core value, your mission statement could include a commitment to volunteer a certain number of hours each month.