There are quite a few candidates in the race for U.S. Congress in Nevada’s first congressional district.
But there is only one candidate who is a military veteran.
Me.
I spent 30 years in the Army. I joined when I was 17 years old. (I had to obtain special permission from my parents because I wasn’t yet of legal age).
I joined at the rank of Private and I retired at the rank of Colonel.
I deployed to 10 foreign countries. I served combat tours in Afghanistan, Kuwait, and Iraq.
Later, my oldest son joined the army and we deployed to Iraq together. (Yes, my wife is a warrior!)
I was a member of the U.S. Delegation to the “Global Coalition Against ISIS.” I specialized in military planning and strategy. I taught at the National Defense University in Washington DC. I was awarded the Legion of Merit and the Bronze Star. My final assignment was at the Pentagon during the Trump administration.
I believe that my military experience is a significant asset as I run for U.S. Congress.
First of all, it demonstrates my commitment to America.
All active-duty military members essentially write a blank check made payable to “The United States of America” for an amount “up to and including their life.” I was willing to give my all then; and I am willing to give my all today.
When I joined the army, I took the “Oath of Allegiance.” I swore to “support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic… so help me God.”
I do not take oaths lightly. And even though I am retired from the Army, that oath will never expire. I am running for Congress with the same desire: to fight for the God-given liberties promised to each citizen in the Constitution of the United States.
My time in the military taught me what it means to sacrifice for our country. I left my family behind each time that I went out to serve.
I watched my friends pay the ultimate price and give their lives for our country.
My patriotism runs deep. I will always stand for the flag because I know what it means to freedom-loving people across the world. I have seen that flag waved on battlefields and I have seen it draped over the coffins of young soldiers.
I am battle tested. I have been in active combat zones. I have had enemies take actual shots at me. I will not be cowed by political adversaries or political correctness.
I have led troops into battle. I know what it’s like to be the “boots” and I know what it’s like to be the “suits.” I can work with whatever resources and personnel I am given to accomplish the mission.
I will not be a typical “freshman congressman.” I have lived and worked in Washington DC before. I know the fortitude and integrity it takes to make a stand for conservative values in our nation’s capital.
I believe that our freedoms are under attack right now. I see America being threatened by socialism and globalist forces. I cannot sit on the sidelines. I am ready to deploy once again.
I might be wearing a new uniform this go around, but I’ve got the same mission. I will use my experience and wisdom to represent the people of Nevada’s first congressional district with courage and honor.
I fought for you overseas. Now, I will fight for you in Washington.
Mark Robertson is a retired member of the US ARMY. Use of his military rank, job titles, and photographs in uniform does not imply endorsement by the Department of Defense or the US ARMY.