A Vet Talks About Vets4Energy

August 28, 2014

From Michael W., Lieutenant, USN (ret.), Indiana

Why you are involved with Vets4Energy?

Because of this organization, I have become current on our country's energy policies. Unfortunately, as a result of becoming current, I think many of these policies are flawed and economically problematic to the country. It’s good to be part of a group that tries to get these flaws fixed. 

What do you want the government to do relative to a national energy policy?

Less regulation. More free markets. Our administration has been forcing Americans to “take” a particular energy in a particular form, regardless of price or consequences. While this has benefitted special interests, it has hurt the American consumer of energy. Let the companies provide the energy in the form that the consumer wants.  

What do the events in the mid-east portend for America? 

The Mid-East is unstable and the U.S. can’t fix it. The U.S. needs to be fully prepared for and have the infrastructure in place for the day when the Mid-East no longer provides oil to the U.S. 

What do our vast domestic energy reserves mean for our national security? 

It’s better to have reserves than not. However, you have to be able to access these reserves. Without the infrastructure in place, we may not be able to use them when the time comes. Not because they don’t exist but because we can’t access them or get them where they are needed.

 What is your interpretation of our theme: Energy Security = National Security

Usually, when we hear “security” we think of physical and military might. But in 2008, we learned through experience that economics are more powerful than militaries for taking a country down.

Economics don’t even require an invasion. Energy is directly correlated to the economics of our country. We rely on energy to heat our homes, cook our food, and get us to work. The more we have to spend on energy, the less money we have for anything else – emergencies, savings, or college for our children.

It is utterly ridiculous that a consumer must spend more on energy because of government regulation when cheaper alternatives exist.

 What concerns you the most about America’s energy decisions (or lack thereof)?

Our elected officials make decisions benefitting special interests. When the negative consequences to the country because of these decisions are brought to light, our elected officials refuse to solve the problems, nor do they address the specific problems. Instead, they rely on sound bites unrelated to the problems themselves. 

 Why should veterans be active in U.S. energy policy?

A veteran can do what a regular civilian cannot. Our elected officials fear the negative fallout that would occur if they treated veterans like their non-military constituents.