On June 7, 2026, Rye Barcott, a Marine veteran and founder of the nonprofit organization With Honor, appeared on CBS’s “Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan.” During the interview, Barcott discussed his new book, “Courage Can Save Us: Ten Extraordinary Americans and the Fight for Our Future,” which profiles ten military veterans who have made significant contributions to public service. This conversation is particularly relevant as it reflects ongoing concerns about trust in government and the role of veterans in bridging partisan divides.
Barcott co-founded With Honor to support the election of military veterans who pledge to serve with integrity and courage. He highlighted that over the past eight years, the organization has helped elect more than 100 veterans, with 50 currently serving in Congress. His book aims to inspire younger generations to engage in public service by showcasing examples of courage from both military and political realms.
Challenges Facing Public Trust
Barcott noted a troubling trend in public sentiment, where only 17% of Americans trust the government to act in their best interests, according to Pew Research. He emphasized that many young people feel isolated and lack a sense of purpose, which can deter them from participating in a political system they perceive as broken. Barcott believes that military service instills a sense of shared mission and purpose, which can be a powerful motivator for public service.
Defining Courage in Public Service
In his discussion, Barcott defined courage as taking risks for the common good, contrasting it with self-interested actions. He expressed concern that the current political climate, characterized by heightened partisanship and divisive rhetoric, makes it challenging for individuals to demonstrate the moral courage needed for effective governance. He pointed out that the military reflects the diversity of the United States and should continue to serve as a melting pot for various backgrounds.
Highlighting Examples of Courage
Barcott shared specific stories from his book, citing examples of courage from the ten individuals he profiles. He mentioned Congressman Don Bacon and Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick, who recently took a bipartisan stance on supporting Ukraine, showcasing their willingness to act against the grain of party expectations. Additionally, he highlighted the establishment of the 988 National Suicide Hotline, initiated by Seth Moulton, as an example of courage in addressing mental health issues among veterans.
Addressing Bipartisanship and Public Service
Barcott acknowledged the structural challenges that hinder bipartisanship, including redistricting efforts that entrench partisan divisions. He stressed the importance of celebrating acts of courage in politics, even when they come from individuals with whom one might disagree on other issues. The need for moral courage in leadership is a recurring theme in Barcott’s advocacy, as he believes it is essential for restoring faith in public institutions.
Conclusion: A Call to Action
As the interview concluded, Barcott reiterated the importance of inspiring the next generation to pursue public service. He believes that by showcasing examples of courage and integrity, it is possible to rekindle trust in government and encourage young people to engage in the democratic process. His work with With Honor aims to create a pathway for veterans and others committed to public service to make a meaningful impact in their communities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is With Honor?
With Honor is a nonprofit organization founded by Rye Barcott that aims to elect military veterans and others dedicated to public service.
What is the main focus of Rye Barcott’s book?
Barcott’s book, “Courage Can Save Us,” profiles ten veterans who exemplify courage in their military and political careers, aiming to inspire young people to engage in public service.
How does Barcott define courage?
Barcott defines courage as taking risks for the common good, emphasizing moral courage over self-interest.
What challenges does Barcott identify in politics today?
Barcott highlights partisanship and a lack of trust in government as significant challenges that hinder effective public service and moral courage.
What examples of courage does Barcott provide?
He cites the bipartisan support for Ukraine by Congressmen Bacon and Fitzpatrick, as well as the establishment of the 988 National Suicide Hotline as notable examples of courage in politics.
Source: CBS News
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