Former Congressman and retired Admiral Joe Sestak discussed the importance of education and the need for accountability in the American government in on April 19 in Althouse. Sestak served as the Director of Defense Policy under Clinton and the Deputy Chief of Naval Operations after 9/11. Sestak also served as a Democratic member in the House of Representatives from Pennsylvania from 2007 to 2011. Sestak began his lecture at Dickinson by explaining how America must retain the ideals that built the United States of America. Using anecdotes from his military career, Sestak claimed that the United States stands out from other countries and that it is necessary to preserve the nation’s unique values. One example Sestak used to illustrate the strength of America character was the way in which soldiers are treated in the Navy. According to Sestak, military leaders from other countries envy the way every soldier is treated as an equal human being—no matter their rank—in the American Navy. This sense of equality, Sestak noted, makes people truly care about their duties as soldier and as a citizen of the United States.

The retired Admiral then described how America has always been an exceptional nation because of its “shared investment of collective resources.” He elaborated, calling this American ideal a “collective ladder.” Sestak asserted that when an American succeeds, he should give back to the community, which would enable others to succeed as well. This would then allow the youth population to continue and thrive in the American tradition of innovation, Sestak commented.

During the lecture Sestak also addressed the issue of accountability in American politics. He stated that America needs to have people that are “both honest and accountable” leading the country. Again, Sestak called upon his military experience to offer a critique of the present political situation. In the military, Sestak explained, a high ranking official faces penalties or demotion for causing his or her ship to run aground. When a politician fails, he or she is allowed to continue with no repercussions.

The students who attended the conference were eager to ask questions and were excited to have an open discussion with such a high profile individual. Catie Duckworth ’14 of the College Democrats was thrilled to have Sestak speak on campus. “I believe that we need more politicians like Sestak in our country. He is a people-oriented, constituent-driven politician who really cares about turning around the country and working on the issues we are facing,” Duckworth said.