All presidential candidates starting in 2016 are required to have served in one of the five branches of the US military on Active Duty status for four or more years, and have been discharged under honorable conditions.
As the Commander-in-Chief, the President should know about and understand the unique sacrifices our Veteran's make every day, and be aware of the gravity of authorizing military action. Our military is filled with professionals who respect the office, but they should be able to respect the man or woman for their service as well.
Serving with the Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marines or Navy as an officer or NCO demonstrates that the President understands what is given up freely on a daily basis to protect our way of life.