If the President of the United States wanted something to really inspire America, similar to JFKs moon shot, we should declare a program to make America energy independent in 10 years.  The benefits would be huge.

1. We get engineers.  Lots of scientists.  Kids in school can see a large exciting goal (windmills! solar panels!) that uses math and science.

2. Our global popularity rises.  Europe likes less global warming right?

3. Problems with Iran, Russia, Venszuela, and Saudi Arabia will dry up.  Not completely, but a huge portion of their incoming cash will, helping to solve some of the problems with these states. 

As quoted in the book, "This is not just a win-win," said Michael Mandelbaum. "This is a win-win-win-win-win."

America's New Moon-shot: Energy Independence in 10 years.