Dear IJA Members,
This Veterans Day, we pause to honor the service and sacrifice of all who have worn the uniform of our nation — and to reflect on the invaluable lessons that military service can teach us, both in life and on the bench.
We are proud to share the reflection of Colonel Sarah D. Smith, United States Army (1995–present):
During my deployment to Afghanistan, my job was to advise on Rules of Engagement (ROE) and ensure our Soldiers could apply the law under real operational pressure. I quickly learned that credibility doesn’t come from a rank or a title—it comes from standing side by side with the Soldiers, walking in the streets and villages beside them. Decisions happened in seconds, civilians and threats blended together, and the law had to be clear enough to use in the dust, noise, and chaos.
On one patrol in Taliban territory, the Soldiers looked to me for guidance, and I was able to give clear, fast ROE advice—no hesitation, no legal dictionary, no “let me check on that.” Afterwards, the platoon sergeant said, “Ma’am, most lawyers show up with a binder and a PowerPoint presentation. You showed up with a ruck and a rifle and knew exactly what to do.”
That became a turning point for the Task Force. Soldiers began trusting the law because they trusted the person delivering it. ROE was no longer an obstacle—it was protection. This lesson carried into my military and legal career: law only earns respect when someone understands human nature, the imperfections of humans, and that situations in life can be messy, stressful, and real.
Even now on the bench, that lesson holds true. Whether in a combat zone or a courtroom, people need rules they can count on—and judges who can relate. We hold enormous power, but that power doesn’t make us perfect, nor separate us from the people who come into our courtrooms. We must remain relatable, grounded, and human, because without that trust, our justice system cannot work.
Colonel Smith’s experience is a powerful reminder of how service to our country shapes leadership, integrity, and the ability to connect with those we serve — in and out of the courtroom.
This Veterans Day, we thank all of our members who are veterans, as well as those serving today. Your service, dedication, and courage strengthen both our nation and our judiciary.