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As Memorial Day nears, on serving in the military

The U.S. has millions of residents who have served in the military since our founding 245 years ago.

America’s military engagements begin with the Revolutionary War and continue with that of 1812, Mexican conflicts, the Civil War, the Spanish American War, World Wars I and II, Korea, Vietnam, Operation Desert Shield/Storm, and the global wars on terrorism. Our military also serves during natural disasters, civil strife, and the current pandemic.

As we approach Memorial Day, Michigan pays tribute to nearly 680,000 veterans, as well as thousands of Michigan residents who currently serve in military active or reserve duty.

The Alpena Combat Readiness Training Center provides domestic and allied military training and serves as a resource center. In addition, regionally, there are the U.S. Coast Guard and National Guard members, as well as military recruiters.

Over recent years, Gallup has conducted domestic public opinion research of our military. A 2019 survey revealed a 78% approval rating of the nation’s strength and military preparedness and 68% approval of the nation’s security from terrorism.

Another Gallup survey inquired, “Do you feel that our national defense is stronger now than it needs to be, not strong enough, or about right at the present time?”

A February 2021 response revealed 14% felt our defense is stronger than it needs to be, 35% not strong enough, about right at 50%, and 1% had no opinion. In 1999, comparative figures were 7%, 42%, 48%, and 3%, respectively.

Finally, a 2017 Gallup survey noted 49% of Americans favor young men and women give a year of national service. However, 57% of the group most likely to be affected — those under the age of 30 — opposed the idea.

I recently approached Northeast Michigan veterans and active-duty representatives for input on several questions:

Col. James Rossi, Air National Guard commander at the Alpena CRTC, commenting on Memorial Day, stated, “This day is so important because it gives our nation an opportunity to pause and honor the brave men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice while serving in the U.S. military.”

On recruiting military talent compared now, versus 15 or 20 years ago, Rossi offered these observations: “I’m very optimistic about the future when I speak to our younger airmen. Certainly, over the past decade or two, the one thing that stands out is their technological capability. New airmen do already have advanced digital skills and we need to identify those talents and leverage them in the correct career fields capitalizing on those skills. While advanced technologies and sophisticated weapons systems are an essential part of the equation, they will not win the day. The men and women in uniform and our civilian partners will be the decisive factor in any conflict.”

Across Northeast Michigan, several veterans were approached with this question: What attributes are needed in joining the military?

Dan Perge, a career Air Force senior master sergeant and currently with the Alpena County Veterans Office stated, “When entering the military, you must have a desire to serve others and set aside any personal wants.”

Echoing Perge’s comments was Bonita Carter, of Onaway, an Air Force veteran: “You need to have a strong desire to serve your country and make a better person of yourself.”

Joseph Malka, a veteran Army paratrooper and currently a detective with the Presque Isle County Sheriff’s Office, emphasized, “You must be in great physical shape and exhibit exemplary leadership to your peers and superiors.”

Eve Burcar, an Air Force and Air National Guard veteran, stated that she joined when nearing age 28. She added, “I truly saw the Air Force as guiding me into a quality foundation for my life,” and, “I learned to be part of something big — guiding me to be a team player.”

Rossi concluded by stating, “Those who will find success in the military are tenacious, team players, and forward thinkers. Our diversity makes us stronger, but our ability to work together and forge forward strategically drive us to make the most out of our service to our communities, state, and nation. Men and women who are eager to accelerate positive change and want to be a part of a team that will stand up to protect our nation. ”

Memorial Day 2021, Alpena’s Little Flanders Field will be the location for bugle calls, snappy hand salutes, and prayer tributes. Events will also be conducted by veteran associations and groups across Northeast Michigan.

As always, throughout the year, thank a veteran you may know or just met. They are part of America’s democratic foundation.

Jeffrey D. Brasie is a retired health care CEO and frequently writes historic feature stories and op-eds. He is a former Alpena resident and resides in suburban Detroit. He served in the U.S. Navy and U.S. Navy Reserve and was on the secretary of the Navy’s public affairs staff.

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