Twenty-Five Years Later Remembering 9/11
On the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks, members of National Security Leaders for America who were at the Pentagon, in New York, and elsewhere around the world reflect on not only the fear, loss, and sacrifice of that day, but also what followed.
NATIONAL SECURITY
LEADERS FOR AMERICA
DEFENDING AMERICAN DEMOCRACY
National Security Leaders for America is a non-partisan network of former military and civilian leaders from across the political spectrum who are uniquely qualified to provide expert insight on U.S. national security and its impact on our democracy and economic stability.
America has always faced profound challenges, and every generation has had to meet them.
National Security Leaders for America (NSL4A) is a nonpartisan coalition of over 1,600 former senior military, diplomatic, and national security officials committed to upholding democratic principles and protecting the integrity of U.S. national security.
Protecting the Constitution remains the mission, preserving America’s promise for future generations.
NSL4A Members swore an oath to the Constitution.
That oath endures—so does the mission!
Our Oath Endures
National Security Leaders for America unites former senior military and civilian leaders to defend our Constitution, strengthen American democracy, and ensure our collective voices continue to serve the nation.
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We inform the public about threats to our democratic institutions, norms, and national security.
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We help decision-makers understand the connections between national security, democratic integrity, and economic prosperity.
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We back individuals and efforts that defend constitutional freedoms and civil-military norms.
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We amplify the expertise of our members through public engagement, media appearances, and nonpartisan advocacy.
Our Priorities
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We stand united to protect the integrity and resilience of America’s democratic institutions—from free and fair elections to the peaceful transfer of power. As national security leaders, we know these pillars are essential to a strong and stable nation.
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Authoritarian threats — foreign and domestic — undermine public trust and national cohesion. We work to expose disinformation, confront extremism, and uphold truth as a cornerstone of national security.
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A professional, nonpartisan, and diverse military is vital to American democracy. We advocate for the preservation of long-standing civil-military norms that prevent politicization of the armed forces and safeguard military readiness.
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The Constitution is our guiding framework. We uphold the rule of law and support leaders who respect legal and constitutional limits, ensuring that no one is above the law — including those in the highest office.
Maintaining global stability, protecting objective governance, and honoring those who serve are vital to preserving democratic freedoms and economic resilience.
Guided by the experience of former military, diplomatic, and national security leaders, we examine developments that could affect America’s ability to lead, defend, and uphold its constitutional foundation.
What We’re Watching
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Diplomacy and International Relations
NSL4A supports strong diplomatic and development capabilities, including a skilled and well-resourced civil and foreign service in the State Department, as vital to preventing conflict, strengthening alliances, and sustaining America’s global leadership and national security interests..
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Civilian National Security and Intelligence Services
NSL4A defends the integrity of the national security workforce, including those serving in career civil, intelligence, and foreign service and advocates for intelligence free from political interference, ensuring objective, fact-based information guides decisions that safeguard our nation.
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The Military and Veterans Communities
NSL4A upholds the proper, apolitical use of the military, promotes equal opportunity and inclusion for all who serve, and works to ensure the nation fulfills its commitments to veterans by providing the care, benefits, and respect they have earned through dedicated service.
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Women and Minorities in National Security
NSL4A affirms that equal opportunity for women and minorities in national security is a strategic necessity for U.S. readiness and effectiveness, and we recognize that U.S. national security strength depends on fully leveraging the proven contributions of women and minorities who meet the same standards.
NSL4A’s SubStack Publication
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NSL4A Public Statements
Official statements from National Security Leaders for America on major developments affecting national security, constitutional governance, democratic institutions, and the rule of law.
This section serves as NSL4A’s public record of organizational positions, responses, and calls for accountability.
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Analysis & Commentary
Original insights, essays, and expert perspectives from National Security Leaders for America members on issues affecting national security, democracy, public service, and civic leadership.
This section provides deeper context and informed commentary beyond the news cycle, grounded in experience and professional judgment.
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NSL4A Media Coverage
Recent media appearances, interviews, and news coverage featuring National Security Leaders for America and its members.
This section highlights how NSL4A’s experienced national security voices contribute to public debate and help inform audiences across the country.
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Oath in Action
This section highlights NSL4A members living their oath beyond uniformed service through public engagement, civic leadership, advocacy, and community action.
These stories show how national security professionals continue to defend democratic principles, constitutional values, and service to country.
Join the Fight for Democracy
Regardless of party affiliation
It’s hard to ignore the perils facing our democracy.
Our unique membership includes hundreds of senior national security leaders.
Our members include:
Retired Admirals, Generals, and Senior Enlisted
Retired and Former Senior Executive and Intelligence Service Professionals
Former Ambassadors
Former Cabinet and Service Secretaries
And many others with decades of experience in supporting and defending the Consitution
Get Involved
Media Inquiries
Media inquiries can be submitted using this online form.