U.S. Army Lieutenant Ryan Collins is a West Point graduate who now leads the 1st Platoon of the 556th Signal Company, which is part of the 25th Infantry Division’s 2nd Striker Brigade. He is from Alaska, and was appointed to West Point by two of the current members of the Alaska congressional delegation. He’s agreed to help our Alaska Youth Advisory Council get congressional co-sponsors and endorsements. And he’s even agreed to write a letter to the editor to the Anchorage newspapers – all the way from Iraq.

When asked why he was willing in helping us, here is what Lt. Collins wrote in an email to me:

“I believe in the necessity and the fulfillment that public service brings to people’s lives. The necessity of professional public servants leading our nation in a variety of different career fields cannot be overstated.  If we are going to be educating tomorrow’s leaders then it is a moral imperative that we see to an education that is equally steeped in virtue and professional ethics as it is a rigorous and well-rounded curriculum.  Personally, I would be satisfied knowing that I took an active role in modeling an institution that would mold civil leaders into educated, mentally tough, and ethical individuals.”

As we approach July 4, the celebration of our country’s independence, I hope you will keep Lt. Collins and his platoon in your thoughts and prayers.