If you don't vote, are you neglecting your duty?

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 31 Oct 2014 11:15:18 -0400

I found this article from Task and Purpose thought provoking and thought I would share it. There is a way of thinking in the military (at least among officers) that we should be apolitical and not get involved in politics. Although I will never use my rank, position, or any other form of influence to endorse a particular candidate, I always encourage my Soldiers to exercise their right to vote. This article puts forth the idea that voting is a form of serving our country, and I am inclined to agree. To quote, "At the end of the day, too many people have fought, suffered, and died for our right to vote. As veterans, we have upheld this right and the ideals in which they inspire. Voting is yet another form of serving our country." I am curious what the RallyPoint community thinks about this, and if you don't vote, why?

http://taskandpurpose.com/dont-vote-youre-military-youre-neglecting-duty/

If You’re In The Military And Don't Vote, You’re Neglecting Your Duty

Voting is yet another form of serving our country.

Response by CW5 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 31 at 2014 8:17 PM

CW5 Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 31 Oct 2014 20:17:41 -0400

CPT Private RallyPoint Member, I do vote - every time there's an opportunity to do so - and I agree with the author of the article that it's essentially a duty of every citizen, not just veterans or active duty military. It's a privilege and a right, but I think it's also a duty for all citizens to vote.

As many have said here on RallyPoint, and all over the place, if you decide not to vote, you better not complain about the political leaders who you could have voted for or against.

Voting really is another way to serve our country. I don't understand why the voter turnout is around 50 to 60 percent (and that's in a good year!). People seem not to care. As military personnel and veterans, we likely care a heck of a lot more than the average joe (or jane). And I'm very glad about that.

Response by SGT Richard H. made Oct 31 at 2014 8:21 PM

SGT Richard H. — Fri, 31 Oct 2014 20:21:45 -0400

Voting isn't your duty as a Soldier. It's your duty as an American.

The point: After you're out (or retired) it's no less important.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 1 at 2014 1:20 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 01 Nov 2014 13:20:23 -0400

I think it is a duty as an American citizen. It's supposed to be government of the people, by the people, for the people. If we're not all voting, we're not all being represented. Even if those we vote for don't win, so long as we vote, some part of our voice is being heard.

Duty aside, it seems like everyone I know likes to complain about the government, regardless of whether or not it's "their" party in power. But a lot of them, when asked, admit they didn't vote. To me, if you didn't vote, you shouldn't be able to complain about what those in office are doing. If you don't like what they're doing, do something about it in the next election.