Soldiers deploy but vote, so why doesn’t everyone? Soldiers defend our democracy and they still find time to vote, so why don’t all Americans exercise their civic responsibility and vote? According to Pew Research, the United States trails other developed countries in voter turnout. Only 55.7% of Americans voted in the last Presidential election (2016).

Soldiers deploy but vote, so why doesn’t everyone?

In a crowded mess hall in a forward operating base, soldiers from different units gathered for a brief respite from their duties. The conversation shifted from the usual banter to a more serious topic: voting.

Corporal Davis, a dedicated soldier and a passionate believer in civic duty, was scrolling through news on his phone. He shook his head and sighed, drawing the attention of Sergeant Rodriguez.

“What’s up, Davis?” Rodriguez asked, leaning back in his chair.

Davis looked up. “I just don’t get it, Sarge. We’re out here, risking our lives to protect our country, and we still make sure to vote. Why doesn’t every American citizen do the same?”

Private Jenkins, always eager to join in on a good discussion, chimed in. “Yeah, it doesn’t make sense. I mean, if we can find a way to vote from a war zone, surely folks back home can find time too.”

Sergeant Rodriguez nodded thoughtfully. “It’s a good question, Jenkins. Voting is a right and a responsibility. But the reasons why people don’t vote are complicated.”

Lieutenant Harper, passing by, overheard the conversation and decided to join in. “Mind if I jump in?” she asked, taking a seat.

“Sure thing, LT,” Davis said. “Why do you think people back home don’t vote?”

Harper thought for a moment. “There are a lot of factors. Some people feel their vote doesn’t matter, especially in states where the outcome seems predetermined. Others are disillusioned with the political system and feel like nothing changes, no matter who they vote for.”

“That’s true,” Jenkins said, nodding. “But still, every vote counts. It’s like in a mission—every person has a role, no matter how small.”

“Exactly,” Harper agreed. “But we also have to consider practical issues. Some people face barriers like long lines at polling places, difficulty getting time off work, or not having access to mail-in ballots.”

“Those are good points,” Davis said. “But it’s still frustrating. We go through a lot to ensure we can vote. Why can’t more people see the importance of it?”

Rodriguez leaned forward. “It’s about perspective. Out here, we see firsthand what we’re fighting for—the rights and freedoms that come with being an American, including the right to vote. Back home, it’s easy to take those things for granted.”

Harper nodded. “It’s also about education. People need to understand how much their vote can impact local, state, and national decisions. It’s not just about the president—it’s about local representatives, school boards, and laws that affect daily life.”

Jenkins grinned. “We should start a campaign when we get back. ‘If we can vote from a war zone, you can vote from home.’ Make it catchy.”

Everyone laughed, but the underlying message resonated. Harper looked around the table, her expression serious. “We can lead by example. Talk to friends and family, share our experiences, and emphasize why voting matters. Change starts with us.”

Rodriguez raised his water bottle in a toast. “To civic duty and making our voices heard, no matter where we are.”

The others raised their drinks in agreement, feeling a renewed sense of purpose. As they returned to their duties, they carried with them a mission beyond the battlefield: to encourage and inspire their fellow Americans to exercise their right to vote and ensure that every voice is heard.

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