WASHINGTON — In a remarkable demonstration of camaraderie, the players in this year’s Army-Navy football game continued a longstanding tradition, each side honoring the other’s school song upon the conclusion of the contest. This gesture reflects a deeper ethos, one that also inspires a congressional group known as the For Country Caucus. This unique assembly, comprising veterans of diverse military backgrounds, has united across partisan and ideological lines to create a collaborative atmosphere amidst a polarized Congress.

As bipartisan relationships in Congress seem increasingly rare, the For Country Caucus stands as a testament to the possibility of cooperation. “We’re trying to lead by example, both within Congress to show our colleagues that this is possible, but also to America more broadly,” stated Colorado Democrat Jason Crow, one of the outgoing co-chairs of the caucus. He indicated that the focus often lies on the discord in Congress, rather than the collaborative efforts that are happening behind the scenes, suggesting that “people only get deluged with the crazy aspects of Congress.”

Established in 2019, the caucus aims to mend the fractures that inhibit legislative effectiveness, according to Steve Womack, a Republican and retired colonel from Arkansas. He emphasized the group’s mutual commitment to prioritizing country and mission, describing it as a foundation upon which to advance beneficial national agendas. The success of the caucus is evident in its role in passing over 100 bills, which range from veterans’ affairs to national security enhancements.

Among their significant achievements was securing the first payment increase for military families in two decades, as well as initiatives enabling military spouses to maintain employment through remote positions, easing the burden caused by frequent relocations due to service.

“We are a small but mighty caucus that punches way above its weight,” remarked Crow, highlighting their impact despite a modest membership. The caucus has also spearheaded efforts to establish the Global War on Terrorism Memorial on the National Mall, with design work currently in progress.

The caucus members, who frequently convene for briefings and discussions with military leadership, emphasize community service as a means to foster unity among Americans. Crow remarked, “One of the ways to bring Americans together is to get Americans to work together again,” reinforcing the belief that community service diminishes political divides.

As the new Congressional session approaches, 28 members of the caucus have been re-elected, with expectations to gain five additional members, potentially comprising nearly 8% of the House. Leadership is set to transition to Texas Republican Jake Ellzey and North Carolina Democrat Don Davis, succeeding Crow and Texas Republican Tony Gonzales.

Edward Crawford, co-founder of the War Veterans Fund, echoed sentiments on the need for veterans to work collaboratively across party lines. “In a polarized world and a very polarized country, we veterans have to work with everybody,” he noted, emphasizing that service transcends political affiliations.

Prominent members of the caucus, such as Reps. Pat Ryan (a Democrat from New York) and John James (a Republican from Michigan), share personal military connections, underscoring the camaraderie that pervades the group. As the new session unfolds, onlookers will be keenly observing the caucus's engagement with pressing issues, including veteran’s benefits and women in combat.

Notably, Womack reaffirmed the caucus's readiness to respond should issues arise that conflict with their ethos. “The whole For Country Caucus will be ready to spring into action” if necessary. Meanwhile, Crow stressed the importance of not adopting an all-or-nothing mentality, stating, “That’s just not acceptable to us,” in a commitment to seeking common ground.

For more details on the efforts of military veterans in Congress, visit the original articles by the Associated Press and LA Times.