Retired U.S. Army Lieutenant General Jody J. Daniels was the featured guest at a discussion of why America’s engagement in the world has rarely been more urgent. The event occurred at a lunch event in Raleigh on Wednesday, December 17th. She was joined by 34 invited guests.

Lt. Gen. Daniels shared her perspective on the importance of international assistance in establishing trust with partners and allies, navigating and preventing armed conflict, and projecting American values. The conversation covered strategic coordination between DOD and Dept of State, the significance of Ukraine, managing competition with China, access to critical minerals, and ROI on our investments in global health. Gen. Daniels’ background was particularly illuminating in discussing challenges and opportunities in Africa as well as the unique capabilities our Guard and Reserve personnel bring to international development/engagement.

With rising competition from foreign rivals, America’s investments in diplomacy and development—alongside defense—keep our troops out of harm’s way, maintain our economic edge, and project the best of American values. General Daniels joined the U.S. Global Leadership Coalition (USGLC), military veterans and other local leaders for a discussion on how America's international engagement directly protects our national security and the economic prosperity of North Carolinians.

A number of former combat veterans testified as to how their experience in combat altered their outlook on the problems facing the poorest of the world.

Some of the organizations represented include:

- Johnson Lambert LLP

- Office of Senator Ted Budd

- Sanford School of Public Policy, Duke University

- Former members, North Carolina House of Representatives

- Salesforce

- Office of Representative Valerie Foushee

- Former Secretary, North Carolina Department of Military and Veterans Affairs

- MOAA, Triangle NC Chapter

The Military Officers Association of America was well represented with at least 8 MOAA members present, including incoming NC Council of Chapters president Donna Culp and Triangle Chapter president Herb Segal.

USGLC plans to remain in touch to share opportunities to engage with members of Congress to advocate for robust funding for diplomacy and development capabilities going forward.

Follow this link for more information about U.S. Global Leadership Coalition: USGLC