I served as a Cavalry Scout in the U.S. Army with the 1st Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment and deployed to Iraq twice, first in 2004 during Iraq’s initial post-Saddam election, and again in 2007 during the troop surge. During those deployments, my unit lost more than 30 soldiers, and others continue to carry the lasting effects of their service.
That experience shaped my view that service members must be properly equipped, supported, and cared for. They should have the best equipment available and not be placed in avoidable risk. It also means ensuring safe housing, clean water, and compensation that reflects their responsibilities and cost of living.
Military readiness depends not only on equipment, but on the people who serve. Recruitment, retention, and overall force readiness are directly tied to how service members and their families are treated.
The United States must remain prepared to address potential threats from near-peer competitors such as China and Russia, as well as ongoing challenges posed by countries like North Korea. These nations maintain significant military capabilities and, in some cases, rely on force as a primary tool of state power. Maintaining readiness requires continued investment in modernization, including cyber capabilities, joint command and control systems, and the nuclear triad.
The war in Iran highlights the complexity of modern conflict. Military action, particularly when it involves critical infrastructure or risks broader escalation, carries long-term strategic consequences. Decisions involving the use of force should be made with clear objectives, defined limits, and an understanding of how they affect both regional stability and the safety of U.S. personnel.
The role of the U.S. military should remain focused on its core mission: defending the nation and, when necessary, fighting and winning wars. Extended operations without clearly defined objectives can place additional strain on service members and resources.
The Constitution assigns Congress a central role in decisions related to war. Maintaining that balance is important to ensure accountability and clarity when the nation commits its forces.
The United States should remain engaged globally and maintain strong alliances, while also recognizing that not every conflict requires direct military involvement. Strategic engagement, combined with readiness and restraint, remains essential to long-term national security.