The concept of ‘Forgotten Americans’ emerged in 2016, originally referenced by Pat Buchanan during his time as a presidential speechwriter for President Nixon. Buchanan coined the term, which was later adopted by Nixon in speeches before transitioning to the use of ‘Silent Majority.’
‘Forgotten Americans’ are individuals who prioritize family and strive for a better life for their children. They embody American exceptionalism, work diligently, worship God, and regularly attend church services. These Americans faithfully pay their taxes and adhere to the law. When the nation’s security faces threats, ‘Forgotten Americans’ are often the first to offer their assistance, advocating for secure borders and expressing concern over ‘political correctness’ in the education system they fund.
In alignment with this advocacy, the Trump campaign adopted the phrase ‘Forgotten Americans,’ making it a key element in President Trump’s acceptance speech during the 2016 Republican National Convention.
Patriotism and career opportunities drive one of the Army’s most significant recruiting surges.
For over a century, the Army’s Civilian Aide to the Secretary of the Army (CASA) Program has served as a vital connection between the U.S. military and grassroots communities. Typically, the Secretary of the Army appoints at least one volunteer, often a business or civic leader, in each state to serve as a CASA. These individuals play a crucial role in sharing the ‘Army story’ and fostering local community support for the U.S. military.
CASAs have been instrumental in engaging rural schools to promote patriotism among youth. They assist Army recruiters with local recruiting challenges and work alongside the Secretary of War, who actively participates to ensure recruiting goals are achieved. Achieving these goals is necessary, but earning the trust of future soldiers and their families remains paramount.
Suggesting a year of national service to strengthen America.
CASAs also greatly contribute to the ‘Soldier for Life’ program, which aids soldiers transitioning from military to civilian life. CASAs help connect these individuals with local employers and assist them in navigating important decisions during their transition. Through volunteer efforts, CASAs also support military families experiencing specific needs.
In June 2025, a decision was made to terminate the CASA program. Army leadership expressed a desire to prioritize technological advancements over community engagement. While understanding the importance of technology on modern battlefields, Van Hipp, previous Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Army, advocates for balancing technological focus with community engagement.
Van Hipp delivered a keynote address at Taiwan’s National Security Summit in 2022, emphasizing the significance of artificial intelligence and quantum technologies in future battlefields. Despite technological advancements, Hipp stresses the need to engage grassroots communities alongside the sophisticated innovations from Silicon Valley.
Restoring the traditional role of CASAs in community engagement is crucial for building the Army of the future without disconnecting from the populace.
Van Hipp has a notable background, having served as Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Army from 1989-1992, and contributed to the mobilization of Army Reserve Forces during Desert Storm.