Bradley Project 2008-Bradley Project On America_s National ...

6 I The Bradley Project on america’s National identity I e pluribus unumTo Provide for the Common DefenseOne of the things that unites us as Americansis that, put simply, we are all in thesame boat. We share a common future,we face common dangers, and we mustprovide a common defense. If the nationis threatened, we are all at risk. Part ofAmerican identity is being a citizen of astrong nation. Accompanying and reinforcingthat identity must be respect forsoldiers.The solemn rows of silent graves atArlington National Cemetery are a somberreminder that the blessings of libertycome at a price. A nation cannot longsurvive without full respect and supportfor those willing to pay that price. Ourschools and colleges, businesses, andcivic groups should take time to recognizeand honor those who are servingin the armed forces.The nation benefits from educatedsoldiers. Unfortunately, many collegesdo not have on-campus ROTC programsand some vocally oppose military recruitmenton campus. This sends the wrongmessage to young people willing to servetheir country. Colleges and universitiesshould have ROTC programs on campusand should give the same access tomilitary recruiters as they do to otheremployers.The Unum is AmericaCitizenship is of a nation, and democraticcitizenship is of a democratic nation. Butsome believe the idea of national citizenshipis outmoded, not in keeping with therequirements of a global economy or thechallenges of world peace.Looking at the global economy, itseems to some that nations pose a barrierto the efficient movement of workers,investment, and technology. But thereare other values at stake, such as whatAmerican companies owe to their fellowcitizens and to the nation that chartersand protects them. As captains of industrylike Howard Hughes and Henry J. Kaiserproved in World War II, patriotism andgood business do not have to be adversaries.American companies shouldunderstand that they have specialobligations to the United States and totheir fellow citizens at home.Some educators also think the idea ofnational citizenship is outmoded. Phrasessuch as “global citizenship” and “citizens