V – Do

Captive Nations Week 2025

President Donald Trump proclaims July 20–26, 2025, Captive Nations Week. He calls upon “all Americans to reaffirm our commitment to supporting those around the world striving for liberty, justice, and the rule of law.”

[ Read the SemperVerus article, Global Persecution of Christians Surges in 2024 ]

In his proclamation, President Trump says, “This Captive Nations Week, I offer my heartfelt support to every person living under a totalitarian regime, and I reaffirm my commitment to advancing a new era of peace where freedom is cherished, sovereignty is respected, and every nation can live without fear of tyranny or oppression.

[ Read SemperVerus articles on the topic of CHRISTIAN PERSECUTION ]

“In 1959, President Dwight D. Eisenhower first proclaimed Captive Nations Week to counter the emerging threat of communism and declare America’s resolve to defend the fundamental rights of free speech, religious liberty, and self-government. As President, I continue that work today, as far too often, oppressive regimes still silence dissent and persecute their own citizens for practicing their faith.

Lessons in Leadership from a Squadron Janitor

William Crawford, a Medal of Honor recipient for his heroic actions during World War II, retired from the Army and worked as a janitor at the US Air Force Academy so that he could remain close to the military.

This article by Colonel James E. Moschgat, United States Air Force, (Ret.) on the Officers’ Christian Fellowship website offers 10 lessons learned from the experience of this humble hero:

Be a Leader: How to Start a Movement

The third practice of the five SemperVerus components is BE, which emphasizes the importance of intentionally reinforcing rectitude in yourself. It’s stated thusly:

III. Be: developing rich personal leadership character of exemplary moral and ethical quality.

In the following 3-minute video TED Talk, entrepreneur Derek Sivers presents lessons about leaders and followers he observed one day on a hillside of people:

Life Lessons to Learn From a Space Capsule Failure

How do you handle unexpected and prolonged difficulties in your life? With frustration? Anger? Despair? Doubting God’s oversight and sovereignty in your situation?

[ Read SemperVerus articles on the topic of SPIRITUAL FITNESS ]

Instead, take the SemperVerus way: Stay True to what is right and Stay True to your aim, trusting God with all your heart.

[ Read the SemperVerus article, Spiritual Fitness: Top 12 Acts for a Christian ]

What was scheduled to be an 8-day test flight of the Boeing Starliner capsule for US astronauts Barry “Butch” Wilmore and Sunni Williams turned into a 286-day test of endurance and conviction during an unexpected life-limiting stay in space aboard the International Space Station due to the capsule’s technical problems including helium leaks in its propulsion system and the failure of several reaction control system thrusters.

Wilmore, a devout Christian, leaned on his faith throughout the extended mission. He described his spiritual connection as “vital to existence,” emphasizing that knowing God was in control sustained him during the 9-month ordeal.