Mrs. Obama is using the bully pulpit to raise awareness of the obesity issue and the epidemic’s impact on all aspects of society. As she pointed out during the launch of her awareness program on February 9, obesity is seen as a national security threat by military leaders and that, “Obesity is now one of the most common disqualifiers for military service. Additionally, economic experts tell us that we’re spending outrageous amounts of money treating obesity-related conditions like diabetes, heart disease and cancer. And public health experts tell us that the current generation could actually be on track to have a shorter life span than their parents.”

Mission: Readiness is also sounding the alarm about obesity. You can read more about how the organization is sharing its findings and call to action on the following blogs:

• • The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
  • Larry King Live
  • The Caucus (New York Times)

Lipman Hearne is proud to serve as a consultant to Mission: Readiness, the nonprofit, bi-partisan organization led by senior retired military leaders ensuring continued American security and prosperity into the 21st century by calling for smart investments in the next generation of American children.  Mission: Readiness is the key group raising awareness of the impact of obesity on young people, the military and our national security.

- Adam Shapiro, Vice President Public Affairs

Mission: Readiness is led by retired military leaders and Education Secretary Arne Duncan helped launched this initiative. The former military leaders cite research that shows early education can reduce the drop out and crime rates while keeping children on track for healthier lives.

The latest news is available at:

• www.washingtonpost.com
• www.thehill.com
• www.navytimes.com

You can learn more about this program at www.missionreadiness.org.

- Adam Shapiro, Vice President, Public Affairs