COS volunteers are working hard to bring American citizens up to speed with their awareness and application of all things civics. Some are also asking how we can instill in our youth a reverence for the US Constitution so as to best prevent complacency in the future. Civics education standards have long been decreased over the past several decades and only recently is the bar being raised to a more acceptable level.
Air Force veteran and Regional Captain Team member, Kelly Robbins (HD24) recently had the opportunity to speak to some children about the constitution and good citizenship. Her niece, Kari, a den mother for a group of Cub Scouts known as The Honey Badgers, recently asked her to speak to them about her military service. Knowing there is a serious lack of civics knowledge today, Kelly also wanted to speak briefly about the US Constitution, the duty to protect it and the importance of being an active member of one's own community.
Being well prepared to speak to a group of children is as important as preparing for a room full of adults so Kelly turned to the education coalition channel in SLACK for some civic presentation guidance. Specifically, something to inspire children to be good citizens. Activities and character building such as learning to be responsible, showing respect for others, and possessing courage are a few of many character traits that typify one being not only a good person, but a good American citizen.
Gathered in a church meeting room, the small group of scouts were first guided through their usual Cub Scout pledge and were then introduced to the Oath of Enlistment.
All military service members, government officials and select employees such as first responders take the oath to serve and protect the constitution. She pointed out the similarities between the two oaths and why they are important to honor at all times. Kelly also emphasized that the oath is made to the US Constitution, not to the President.
"I, _____, do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; and that I will obey the orders of the President of the United States and the orders of the officers appointed over me, according to regulations and the Uniform Code of Military Justice. So help me God." - The Oath of Enlistment
Kelly knows full well that anything beyond 20 minutes is an eternity in a child's mind so she was sure to keep things short and sweet but also gave time for the kids to ask questions and give their own input. It was a thoughtful discussion that transcended hers and their age.
The growing grassroots army being cultivated by the COS Project has a great role in developing and channeling concerned citizens' patriotism and sense of duty to their country. Opportunities can be seized for COS Volunteers to give other adults and children alike reasons to be just as concerned for and dutiful towards those in their community as we are!
As a COS supporter there is so much you can do to keep our country on its intended course of greatness. Consider what you can share with your community and select a role among us today!
