In an address to students and faculty at the National Defense University in Washington, D.C., Army Gen. Martin E. Dempsey encouraged young leaders to go out and make a difference in the world. The chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff emphasized compassionate leadership and promoting American values.
"Our nation, and really our world, needs our leadership," Dempsey said in his speech, as quoted by the Defense Department. "It needs every good idea you have and a thousand more because the challenges we face are legion."
Dempsey also stated that he would like young military leaders to show America that the military's role goes beyond fighting wars. According to Dempsey, the military has a responsibility to protect the nation and serve the American people during peacetime. He added that more citizens need to be aware of the military's work and goals.
Dempsey, who is one of the military's top officials, has been quite vocal this week, reaching out to a variety of audiences to facilitate dialogue. The World Tribune reported that Dempsey talked to Middle Eastern leaders this week to gain some insight on potential terrorist groups. Meanwhile, NPR recently reported that Dempsey has stepped in to debunk claims that President Barack Obama is suspicious of senior military officials.