Subject: Veteran Request for Presidential Guidance on Domestic Extremism, Military Recall, and Constitutional Defense

Mr. President:

I respectfully write as a former United States Army soldier who served with the 10th Mountain Division at Fort Drum, New York, from 1994 to 1997, including deployment to Haiti.

I am deeply concerned about politically motivated violence, organized intimidation, and threats against American communities. Reports of extremist violence in France and Italy underscore the importance of preparing for similar threats within the United States.

I urge your Administration to investigate substantiated criminal violence associated with individuals or networks identifying as Antifa and determine whether existing domestic terrorism laws are sufficient. I request clarification of whether a formal domestic terrorist organization designation is legally possible and what congressional action would be required.

My concern is criminal violence, not peaceful protest, political disagreement, or constitutionally protected association. The First Amendment and Bill of Rights must remain central to every federal response.

REQUEST FOR PRESIDENTIAL GUIDANCE

As a former active-duty member of the 10th Mountain Division, I respectfully request written answers to the following:

1. What lawful procedures allow veterans to organize community emergency preparedness, observation, reporting, and protective assistance in coordination with civilian authorities?
2. What federal procedures govern the recall or muster of former active-duty soldiers during a declared national emergency? How would former 10th Mountain Division personnel receive official orders, eligibility determinations, and reporting instructions?
3. Should Fort Drum face a credible domestic security threat, what authorized channels would permit qualified former service members to volunteer for installation protection or emergency-support assignments?
4. What specific limitations govern martial law, the Insurrection Act, the Posse Comitatus Act, and National Guard or federal military deployment during domestic disturbances?
5. What lawful rules govern civilian observation, protective activities, and military overwatch? I seek clarification of the distinction between authorized military operations and civilian volunteer responsibilities.
6. What rights and protections under USERRA would apply if a former soldier were lawfully recalled to military service?

MY COMMITMENT TO THE CONSTITUTION

Mr. President, my oath to support and defend the Constitution remains a defining commitment of my military service.

I strongly believe veterans should receive clear, authoritative instructions concerning national emergencies, lawful mobilization, and the defense of American communities.

I do not seek authorization for independent armed operations. I seek lawful instructions establishing command authority, accountability, constitutional limitations, and the proper role of veterans in public safety.

I respectfully request that the White House refer these questions to the Department of Defense, Department of the Army, Department of Homeland Security, and Department of Justice for written guidance.

I remain committed to protecting our communities through lawful service, constitutional accountability, and respect for civilian authority.

Respectfully,

Bradley J. Burt
U.S. Army Veteran, 10th Mountain Division
Fort Drum, New York | 1994–1997
Wisconsin