Why Are So Few Veterans in Public Service

Abstract : This paper examines many reasons why Military Officers, upon retirement, generally do not opt to enter public service. It looks at the current legislative situations linked to the background of elected officials and how men and women with a military background, whether retired or not, would be more capable than the average politician, and do a much better job. The ingrained values and patriotic duty of military Service Members would be greatly beneficial to public office and would be a welcome change to the type of individual who has served or is currently serving in the US Congress and other levels of government. The metrics for success could not be measured in the near term and instead would take a decade or more to see the difference in governing by former Service Members. After fully addressing the current legislative situations and the impact former Service Members could have, I discuss potential avenues of campaign support, through venues such as military associations, for Service Members and other ways that could encourage and assist former Service Members in getting elected. I also discuss the fact that military service is not a guarantee for successful public service and why; citing several well-known cases.