Social and economic decline in America's working-class communities has produced a crisis of low morale. The peace and security of the global commons, provided by the US military, has allowed for international prosperity at the cost of social decline among many American working-class communities. The result is a loss of America's working-class confidence in national institutions. While the military cannot solve the social and economic decline in America's working-class communities, it must make modest investments to ensure the long-term support of the working class. As veteran numbers decline in communities, the military must replace the ambassador function veterans provide and expand the number of interactions of the military with working-class influencers. Military leaders must also become more conscious of the relationship of the military to the American people and consider the impact of their actions on future support. Maintaining a strong relationship with the working class will ensure the future success of the All-Volunteer Force.

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