The Lawfare Podcast Lawfare Daily: John Bridgeland on National Service and Civil Defense Amid Geopolitical Uncertainty
8 snips
Dec 27, 2024 
John Bridgeland, Executive Chair & CEO of More Perfect and former National Service Czar, joins Kevin Frazier to explore America's readiness for large-scale conflict and the importance of national service. They discuss the evolution of service programs since 9/11 and the need for a renewed spirit of civic duty, especially among younger generations. Bridgeland shares personal stories highlighting barriers to military service and innovative civilian programs aimed at fostering community contribution and strengthening national security.
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9/11 and the Rise of National Service
- After 9/11, John Bridgeland witnessed an outpouring of service, like a Seattle couple driving their van across the country to feed first responders at Ground Zero.
- This inspired President Bush to create an initiative fostering a culture of service, citizenship, and responsibility.
Founding Fathers' Concerns
- The Founding Fathers, particularly Washington and Madison, feared future generations neglecting civic duties in a rights-focused nation.
- They envisioned a national university cultivating citizen habits and a service ethic.
The Civilian Conservation Corps
- FDR's Civilian Conservation Corps employed 3 million Americans over nine years, planting trees, building fire towers, and restoring land.
- This program served as a model for future national service initiatives.
