Keith Nolan doesn't believe his deafness should be a barrier to serving his country — and is making the case for increasing the role of citizens with disabilities in the military.

Why you should listen

Keith Nolan was told that he couldn’t enlist in the army because he was deaf -- but he didn’t take no for an answer. After he finally convinced a commander to let him audit ROTC classes, he proved himself a top student and earned his uniform. Although a standard military hearing test prevents him from enlisting, his continued fight has inspired many would-be soldiers with disabilities -- and a vigorous online campaign on his behalf.

Keith Nolan’s TED talk