KANSAS CITY, Mo. – This week as the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the U.S. reflects on the seventh anniversary of the end of the Iraq War, we salute and honor the service of America’s more than 1.5 million Iraq War veterans and the nearly 4,500 service members who paid the ultimate sacrifice.
The front lines of Iraq brought with it a never-before-seen breed of terrorist on a constantly changing battlefield. Rising to answer a nation’s call to action after one of the most devastating terrorist attacks our country had ever seen, the men and women of America’s Newest Greatest Generation bravely showed the world that America would not succumb to fear.
“The war in Iraq may be officially over, but we owe it to the service members still supporting Operation Inherent Resolve to remember they’re working to not only fight off ISIS, but to help ensure a nation’s freedom and democracy succeeds,” said VFW National Commander B.J. Lawrence.
“Despite the memories, family time and cherished holidays they’re missing, they selflessly leave their own families and loved ones behind to embrace these responsibilities,” Lawrence said. “As veterans, we understand there is no greater duty than protecting our citizens, our ideas and our way of life.”
This Saturday, the more than 1.6 million members of the VFW and its Auxiliary honor and remember the veterans of the Iraq War. Thank you for your courage, perseverance and sacrifice.