It is extremely rare for veterans to run for national office. Today we have two veterans who could become Vice President of the United States. One of them will definitely be. That should be a source of pride for all veterans, regardless of their service or branch of the military. But no, it is 2024, and their service must be questioned or criticized by people who have neither served nor understand the concept.
I have been very fortunate to have served on active duty, in the Reserves, and in the National Guard. I say that only to point out that there are great people and leaders in every unit and service. I also acknowledge that a small minority of people embarrass their respective organizations through their individual failings. That is called dishonorable service.
Having never served with any of these candidates, I have no opinion on the quality of their military service. I will say that veterans traditionally do not disparage the military service of others. Neither minimum length of service nor military rank has prevented soldiers and Marines throughout our history from demonstrating exceptional bravery and valor. That is called honorable service.
Over the course of my life, I have heard derogatory remarks about Vietnam War veterans during presidential campaigns. Both Senator John Kerry and Senator John McCain were criticized by other candidates for their military service in previous campaigns in 2004 and 2016, respectively. I regret that our national veterans organizations did not defend them then. I regret that I did not speak out, either.
So both candidates served honorably. Vote however you want, but recognize that both were worthy of their service. And something else is worthy? Making sure every American has the opportunity to vote and that their vote counts.
To that end, I join Vet the Vote (https://vetthe.vote) in again asking my fellow veterans to contact the Chief Election Officer and volunteer to train and support our fellow citizens by staffing polling places across the country. We will need a significant number of new volunteers to staff the approximately 50 polling places on Election Day. The requirements are:
- You must be a U.S. citizen and registered to vote in Nevada.
- The minimum age is 16 years.
- You must be physically able to work long hours on election day (over 14 hours).
- You must be physically able to set up equipment weighing approximately 35 pounds.
- Present a professional demeanor.
- Have access to reliable transportation.
- Able to attend the required poll worker training and pass a practical exam.
- Complete and pass the online poll worker training.
Additionally, we are currently transitioning to new devices and could use volunteers who are familiar with iPads and applications.
Finally, on behalf of the voters, I would like to thank you for your continued commitment to ensuring that our votes count.
Jim McNamara is a resident of Reno.
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