Civics

National Security

Contributing Scholar: Lt. Col. Alphanso Adams

Episode 2

A More Perfect Union

The phrase "in Order to form a more perfect Union" acknowledges that perfection is unattainable, yet it highlights the power of strong communities to foster personal growth, especially in the face of adversity, exemplified by Lt. Col. Alphanso Adams, who overcame the unexpected death of his father through the strength and support of his community, forging his own path and forming his own strong communities – more perfect unions – as an officer and family man.

A More Perfect Union

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U.S Air Force

United States Air Force

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A More Perfect Union

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Published May 29, 2024

Embedded within the phrase “in Order to form a more perfect Union” in the Preamble to the United States Constitution are two complementary ideas that transcend the political bond between the states. A more perfect union recognizes that it is the pursuit of perfection – continuous individual growth and improvement – rather than perfection itself, that is truly meaningful. It also suggests that healthy communities provide the right conditions for such sustained individual growth. Lieutenant Colonel Alphanso Adams of the United States Air Force embodies these two ideas as a man whose character was forged through the support of his community after the unexpected death of his father early in his life.

Learn More about our National Security Affairs Fellows (NSAFs) and Hoover's National Security Affairs Fellows Program:

Read Lt. Col. Alphanso Adams' bio here.
Learn more about Hoover's 2024 NSAF Class here.
Click here to learn more about The Robert and Marion Oster National Security Affairs Fellows (NSAF) Program at the Hoover Institution.

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