Dear Friends,
21 years ago today, American and allied troops crossed the border from their staging areas in Saudi Arabia into Iraq, signaling the start of Operation Iraqi Freedom. While the battle to defeat the Iraqi army and bring the tyrant Saddam Hussein to justice were both achieved in the first few months of the operation, the fight against terrorism and authoritarianism that ensued still continues on to this day.
Operation Iraqi Freedom saw troops from more than 30 different countries fight alongside America in the name of defending freedom and democracy, a powerful display of the strength that can be marshaled by a coalition working towards a shared objective. By remaining united in the face of a dangerous totalitarian regime determined to destabilize the region and the globe, America and our allies reaffirmed that when free peoples act together with determination, they can shape a more secure and just world.
Today, we must strengthen our coalition to counter growing threats from abroad. Our adversaries China, Russia, and Iran are tirelessly working in unison to degrade America’s security and undermine our liberties. They have become emboldened by the deterioration of our military readiness, believing we lack the resolve to defend our interests and the American way of life.
Our adversaries must see that we will not back down from a fight. Securing America’s future requires decisive action—funding and modernizing our military, strengthening our deterrence, and restoring lethality to our armed services—to ensure America’s enemies never gain the upper hand.
Veterans On Duty remains steadfast in our mission to support policies that enhance military readiness, expand our defense capabilities, look after those Global War on Terror veterans as they train the next generation of soldiers, and protect the freedoms we all cherish. However, realizing this vision requires a coalition of likeminded patriots to stand up to defend freedom, democracy, and the American way of life, much like those who answered the call some 21 years ago.
Now is the time for veterans, patriots, and all concerned citizens to rally together. If you believe in keeping America safe, strong, and free, we need your help in this fight.
Join us in advocating for bold leadership and meaningful action to secure America’s future. Follow us on X, LinkedIn, and Facebook. Share this message with your fellow veterans, friends, and family. Together, we can ensure America stands ready and able to defeat the scourge of authoritarianism, and defend the cause of freedom here at home and abroad.
Signed,
Jay Kramer
President, Veterans On Duty