| Once again, Veterans’ Day is upon us, and thus we are afforded the opportunity to proudly and gratefully recognize the hardships and sacrifices demanded from, and faithfully accepted by, the millions of men and women who have defended our land in war and peace.
It is a day to review memories of past honor and extraordinary sacrifice. It is a day to celebrate peace and the bright victories that grew from dark battles. It is a day to dream of a brighter future. Veterans’ Day is also a reminder that we have an obligation to safeguard the precious legacy of our Founding Fathers – a legacy of freedom, justice and liberty.
Sadly, we have reached a time in this country when international terrorism seeks to undermine our very way of life. In the War on Terror, our men and women in uniform have once more been called on to lead America’s assault against those who threaten the security of freedom-loving people everywhere.
Recently, I had the privilege of joining four of my colleagues who serve with me on the Congressional Air Force Caucus on a fact-finding mission to Iraq, Kuwait, Qatar, and England. My colleagues and I were fortunate to spend a great deal of time with our troops, eating nearly every meal with them. This gave us the opportunity to hear their perspectives on the ongoing war in Iraq. Contrary to media reports, the morale and spirit of our troops in Iraq is extremely high. These brave men and women are proud and enthusiastic to serve their country. Nearly every soldier we spoke with believes that we are winning the fight to eradicate terrorism throughout the world. They feel that perseverance will ensure the long-term success both in Iraq and in the War on Terror. We also visited the Air Force Theater Hospital in Iraq. Words cannot adequately describe how rewarding and moving this experience was for me. I was touched to hear that even those who were wounded in combat were eager to return to their units.
When we sat down with our troops, they expressed concerns about the American media’s portrayal of the war. They believe that the media has focused too much on the casualties and cost of the war and not enough on the progress being made there. Because of this, there is a sense that their contributions are largely being overshadowed and trivialized. Our servicemembers want the American people to know about their sacrifices to rid the world of terrorism and despotism and their successes to secure freedom and democracy in its place.
Today’s military is acting in the finest traditions of the veterans who came before them. Winning the War on Terror is a challenge they did not seek, though it is one they will meet. As in any war, we are hearing dissenting opinions from those who believe in their cause. However, this is not the time to protest what our troops are doing but a time to be united in support of our troops. As much as we would like it to be otherwise, we cannot separate the troops from the mission or the war from the warrior. When we are victorious in the War on Terror, there will be plenty of time to debate among ourselves about how we can do better.
President Calvin Coolidge once said, "The Nation which forgets its defenders will itself be forgotten." Let us never forget the proud warriors who joined the fight and made the ultimate sacrifice. Let us never forget all of those who made the sacrifice on behalf of freedom and justice throughout the world and then came home. Let us not forget those brave men and women – many of them our children and grandchildren – who today are serving this country abroad and at home.
God Bless America! |
