I tip my cup to the rise of the E-4 Mafia as one takes on a Senior Enlisted Leader. As the 2024 presidential race heats up, let’s take a pause to recognize an unprecedented and inspiring development: both major parties have selected veterans as their vice-presidential candidates. This marks a significant moment for the veteran community, highlighting the enduring need for service members in politics, schools, and other spheres of influence.

Kamala Harris has chosen Tim Walz, a National Guard veteran, as her running mate. While, Donald Trump enlists JD Vance, a Marine Corps veteran. This decision underscores the value of military experience in shaping national leadership and policy.

The Significance of Veterans in Leadership

Veterans bring a unique perspective to leadership roles. Consider the creation of FedEx, which was founded by a logistician who literally bet everything to keep the company running. The military is a microcosm of American society, with service members coming from all walks of life. This diversity, combined with rigorous training and a high standard of entry, ensures that those who serve are well-equipped to lead and make impactful decisions.

• Team-Oriented Mindset: Veterans understand the importance of teamwork and collective effort. In the military, the success of the mission depends on every member working together towards a common goal. We don’t see color or where someone is from; our unity is embodied in the red, white, and blue. While there may be outliers, they don’t last long in such an environment. This mindset is invaluable in political leadership, where collaboration and bipartisan efforts are essential.
• High Standards and Selectivity: Only a small percentage of the population meets the criteria to serve in the military. From this already select group, an even smaller percentage chooses to serve. This makes the presence of veterans in high political positions even more noteworthy, as it represents a convergence of dedication, discipline, and commitment to service.

Historical Context and Current Impact

The last president to have served in the military was George H.W. Bush, a Navy veteran. Before him, it was Jimmy Carter, also a Navy veteran. This long gap underscores the importance of seeing veterans like Walz and Vance on the national stage again.

Tim Walz, a retired National Guard Command Sergeant Major, and JD Vance, who served as a Marine Corps Corporal (E-4), bring distinct experiences to their political careers. It’s a battle of the Senior Enlisted versus the E-4 Mafia, both known for their effectiveness. Vance, a millennial with combat deployments, also represents a younger generation of leaders and both are Global War on Terror (GWOT) veterans. Whether Walz retired as an E-9 or E-8, the important thing is that he was selected and pinned as an E-9, which speaks volumes about his leadership and dedication.

The last president to have been an enlisted man and not hold a commission was James Buchanan, who served as a private during the War of 1812. The last vice president to have served as an enlisted man and not hold a commission was Al Gore, who served in the Army during the Vietnam War. It has been far too long since non-officers held such high positions, but it is about to happen again with the selection of veterans as vice-presidential candidates in the 2024 election. This highlights the significant and overdue recognition of the contributions and leadership capabilities of enlisted service members.

Veterans Influencing Beyond Politics

Beyond the presidential race, veterans are making significant strides in various fields. Figures like JD Vance and Tim Walz exemplify how military service can translate into impactful careers in politics, education, and business. Their journeys inspire current service members and veterans to pursue leadership roles in their communities. Could we see an enlisted veteran on the 2028 ticket? It would be incredible to have a veteran as the Commander in Chief again.

Conclusion

The selection of veterans as vice-presidential candidates in both major parties is a monumental moment for the veteran community. It signifies recognition of the unique strengths and perspectives veterans bring to leadership. Politics aside, this development is a testament to the impact veterans can have on national and local levels. It is a proud moment for all who have served and a reminder of the vital role veterans continue to play in shaping the future of our country.

For more information, visit the full articles on the Military Times about Tim Walz and JD Vance.

Chris Elder, USN Retired

MIL2VET

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The MIL2VET Network is a veteran-led media platform designed to assist service members and veterans in transitioning from military life to civilian life. Created by veterans for veterans, MIL2VET shares genuine stories, valuable resources, and insights that support career transitions, education, and community connections. Through a variety of formats including articles, videos, podcasts, and interviews, the platform provides veterans a space to share their experiences and learn from others who have traveled similar journeys. MIL2VET also serves as a gathering place where active-duty service members, veterans, and supporters can unite in fellowship, maintaining the bond of service long after uniforms are put away. Its mission is straightforward: to strengthen the veteran community by sharing knowledge, stories, and resources that facilitate veterans’ success after service.

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