Everyone Should Consider Giving Back to Troops

When the Founding Fathers drafted the Declaration of Independence they could have never imagined the America of today. It would have been impossible to envision an age of smart phones and computers, of airplanes and electric cars, or of polio vaccines and modern medicine. But one thing was certain: As they signed the Declaration of Independence, they were filled with hope for the future of our country.

As grills are fired up, lawn chairs are set and fireworks go off overhead, I hope you take the time to think about where our country was 235 years ago and what we can all do to make it better for the next 235 years. In every community there are opportunities to make a difference.

Volunteering can seem like an overwhelming responsibility to many people.  They imagine long time commitments or the need for technical expertise. In truth, everyone can help in their own way and there are many opportunities, both large and small. Ideas on where to start can be found through local community organizations or on the web at www.serve.gov. Even the smallest act of kindness can go a long way.  

I have seen inspiring examples of volunteerism in Wisconsin, like Marquette University Law School’s Servicemembers and Veterans Legal Assistance of Wisconsin (SAVLAW) program. SAVLAW helps connect Wisconsin troops with free legal assistance for issues such as child custody or bankruptcy.

While programs like Marquette’s are excellent, the unfortunate fact is that they are not large enough to address the growing needs of troops dealing with multiple overseas deployments. That’s why I introduced the Justice for Troops Act to expand efforts to connect troops with volunteer attorneys. This legislation was recently included in the Senate’s annual defense authorization bill, and I am hopeful that it will ultimately be signed into law.

I’m encouraged when I think of where our country will go from here. I’m encouraged to know that there are discoveries still to be made. And I’m encouraged by those who get involved to make this country even better for future generations.