After a quarter century marked by war, economic upheaval, a pandemic, and repeated uncertainty, the U.S. Naval Academy Class of 2001 has become very comfortable operating in crisis mode. Advance planning remains a work in progress—as our class president, Jen, can probably attest.
But returning to Annapolis for our 25-year reunion gave me something I badly needed: renewed resilience. My classmates have carried their commitments to service into military careers, businesses, religious vocations, and communities across the country. Seeing them again reminded me how many people we have who understand responsibility and continue to honor it.
In this episode of the Rule of Law Brief, I reflect on that reassurance and what it means as America approaches consequential midterm elections. The results will matter enormously, and so will the administration’s response to them.
I also invite service academy graduates from every academy and every class to introduce themselves in the comments. Share your academy, class year, and town or region, and let your neighbors know you’re there and willing to help. Leadership carries responsibilities even when you aren’t in charge.
If someone you know is anxious about America’s future, share this episode with them. My Naval Academy reunion reminded me that there are leaders walking among us—and that we have people we can turn to when the way ahead is uncertain.
