The Enduring Spirit of American Generosity: A Veteran’s Plea to Protect USAID
As a twelve-year-old in 1991, I vividly recall the swell of national unity that accompanied Operation Desert Shield and later, Operation Desert Storm. Growing up in the heartland of America, I was captivated by the countless yellow ribbons adorning trees, a poignant symbol of support for the brave men and women deployed to liberate Kuwait. These ribbons weren’t mere decorations; they represented a deep-seated belief in the American spirit – a commitment to standing by those who served, a demonstration of generosity and kindness that resonated deeply within me. This experience indelibly shaped my understanding of our nation.
Years later, in June 2001, I followed my heart’s calling and was commissioned into the Air Force, embarking on a nearly 13-year journey as a military officer and pilot. During my service, I deployed in support of Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom, witnessing firsthand the complexities of international conflict. By the time I fulfilled my commitment, a profound realization had taken root: military might alone could not solve all the world’s problems.
The aftermath of 9/11 brought about a shift in America’s approach to international engagement. President George W. Bush championed the "3 Ds" – defense, diplomacy, and development – acknowledging that military solutions were not always the answer. International development and humanitarian assistance, primarily channeled through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), were recognized as vital pillars of our national security. This "soft power" became an essential complement to our hard power and diplomatic efforts, designed to protect the American people and project our influence globally.
In 2014, after leaving the military, I sought to join the ranks of America’s soft power professionals. This led me to USAID, specifically the Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance. There, I discovered a community of patriots akin to those I had served alongside in the Air Force – individuals dedicated to service, imbued with kindness and generosity, committed to upholding American ideals. Their mission was simple yet profound: to save lives and alleviate suffering in the wake of disasters and humanitarian crises around the world.
Recent events, however, have cast a dark shadow on this vital institution. Elon Musk and former President Donald Trump have expressed intentions to dismantle USAID, a move that would devastate its dedicated workforce of over 13,000 individuals. These are people who have served the American people and our interests abroad under both Republican and Democratic administrations, embodying the very essence of public service.
The potential consequences extend far beyond the walls of USAID. American farmers, particularly those in the heartland, face the loss of their livelihoods as the ripple effects of such a decision take hold. With the destruction of USAID, a critical tool of American soft power would be lost – a tool that not only protects American interests at home and abroad but also projects American generosity and kindness across the globe, while simultaneously supporting American jobs and families.
My colleagues at USAID are the embodiment of courage and compassion. They are the individuals who rush towards the fire, providing life-saving aid to those most vulnerable during humanitarian crises. Their actions are driven by a fundamental belief in humanity – a belief that recognizes our shared identity as human beings and asserts that every person deserves to live a dignified life.
Furthermore, they understand a crucial principle that has been embraced by bipartisan majorities for decades: investing in aid and development is far more cost-effective than allowing regions to descend into chaos and conflict, which ultimately necessitates far greater interventions. They stand ready to assist any American in need, regardless of their background or circumstances. In the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina in 2005, USAID played a pivotal role in managing logistics and operations for the humanitarian aid provided by other nations to the United States. The people of USAID, including many military veterans like myself, represent the very best of our nation.
This is not, however, the narrative that Musk and the former president seek to promote. Their actions threaten to undermine the very foundations of American values and global leadership.
As a nation, we stand at a critical crossroads. Now more than ever, we must remember the true spirit of America – a spirit defined by kindness, generosity, and unwavering support for those in need. This is the spirit that inspired those yellow ribbons on trees across America. Today, we are called upon to extend a hand to our neighbors, both at home and abroad, rather than turn away.
As a veteran and a humanitarian, I implore you to remember who we are. Consider what it means to be a "city on a hill," a beacon of hope and compassion for the world. Remember that America’s greatness stems from our goodness, our willingness to help others, and our commitment to upholding the highest ideals of humanity. We cannot allow those who seek to dismantle our institutions and falsely demonize our fellow Americans to succeed. Instead, we must remember the yellow ribbons, symbols of unity, generosity, and unwavering support for those who serve. We must choose to embrace our shared humanity and reaffirm our commitment to a world where every person has the opportunity to live a dignified life.
