Opinion: U.S. leader should have military service; DeSantis fits the bill

As our country faces consecutive waves of unethical social norms and uncertainty, many Americans are largely displeased with the way things are going and fearful about the state of the nation.

As a South Carolina veteran and former battalion commander in the South Carolina Military Department, I am a huge advocate for the commander-in-chief to have served in the United States Military.

There are many good candidates; however, only one of the candidates in the GOP presidential field has what it takes to win and lead. Only one of the candidates has served our nation in uniform, and at a time of growing global threats, we need Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis — a former Navy JAG Officer — to lead our armed forces as commander in chief.

This matters especially to South Carolinians. The Palmetto State plays a pivotal role in our nation's defense. The state is home to critical military installations and training centers that underpin our nation's defense capabilities. Joint Base Charleston, located on the picturesque coastline, serves as a critical hub for air mobility, providing vital support for global operations and humanitarian missions.

The Naval Weapons Station in Charleston has played a crucial role in supporting the Navy's mission, including the maintenance and overhaul of nuclear submarines, and Shaw Air Force Base in Sumter is a linchpin of airpower and serves as headquarters for the U.S. Air Force Central Command's 9th Air Force. This base has been at the forefront of advanced fighter aircraft operations, ensuring our readiness and response capabilities in an ever-evolving global security landscape.

It isn't just South Carolina's present contributions that should matter to the next commander-in-chief; it's also our history. From the Revolutionary War forward, South Carolina's sons and daughters have valiantly served in uniform. Their courage and commitment have been showcased on battlefields around the world, embodying the patriotism that runs deep within our state. As a ninth-generation South Carolinian, whose seventh great-grandfather served and fought under Francis Marion “The Swamp Fox,” I want to support a leader who embodies that same patriotism.

That's why we need a president like Ron DeSantis, someone who can appreciate the needs and contributions of South Carolina's military community. Because he has served, we can trust that he will honor our service members' unwavering dedication, fortify our national security, and ensure that South Carolina's military community receives the recognition and support it deserves.

This extends to more than just combat readiness. Our state's military installations serve as pillars of economic stability. They provide employment opportunities, stimulate economic growth, and foster technological advancements that benefit both the military and civilian sectors. By recognizing and investing in South Carolina's military community, the next president can ensure a flourishing economy and sustained prosperity for South Carolinians.

I have a love for our veterans, and I am concerned for their well-being. Recently, I was honored to complete the newly established state-level “Palmetto Pathfinder Program,” created by South Carolina’s Department of Veterans Affairs. This program helps to direct veterans to the appropriate area to get the best assistance they deserve.

South Carolina is widely known for its strong veteran community and support systems. The state offers various resources and programs to assist veterans in areas such as health care, education, employment, and housing. As governor of Florida, DeSantis has implemented comprehensive initiatives to address these critical issues and support veterans' successful transition into civilian life.

His commitment to providing quality care and support for veterans aligns with the values and needs of South Carolina's veteran community. As a U.S. congressman and governor, he has prioritized improving access to quality health care for veterans, and his leadership can contribute to further enhancing the services provided by the Charleston VA Medical Center and other facilities across our state.

South Carolina's veterans and their families deserve a leader who will advocate for them and address their unique challenges. Ron DeSantis has a proven track record of supporting policies that improve the lives of veterans, both through his legislative efforts and his gubernatorial initiatives. His commitment to expanding educational opportunities, increasing job prospects, and enhancing mental health services for veterans is what our state wants and deserves in the next president.

South Carolinians value the duty, honor, and respect that is afforded those who have defended our freedoms. Ron DeSantis is a leader with a proven track record in military matters, and he is the right choice for president.

Together, let us support a fellow service member who understands the sacrifices made by South Carolina's veterans and will work tirelessly to honor their service.

Dr. Jason B. Ross is a South Carolinian who believes in and supports Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis in DeSantis' bid to win the GOP nomination for the presidency in 2024.

This article originally appeared on Greenville News: Opinion: DeSantis' military service is key reason he should be elected