Dear Friends,
Last week, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth traveled across the Indo-Pacific to reinforce and strengthen U.S. security partnerships in the region. Speaking in Sydney, Australia, he delivered a clear message to our allies: “America First does not mean America alone.”
Only by working alongside our partners can the United States and all freedom-loving nations in the region confront the threat posed by Communist China, which endangers our shared safety and security.
At the 80th Reunion of Honor ceremony on Iwo Jima, Secretary Hegseth underscored how even as former enemies, we must now stand together in the face of aggression. Reflecting on the 80,000 American and Japanese soldiers who fought in that historic battle, he stated, “If they could summon the courage to face a fearsome foe, so can we. If they could so completely dedicate themselves to their countries, to their families, and to each other, so can we. We are fortunate to stand here together, shoulder to shoulder as friends and allies, living their legacy of honor.”
We are facing unprecedented threats to democracy around the world. This week, China launched yet another round of surprise military drills around Taiwan, simulating a blockade and invasion of the island. These recurring displays of force highlight Beijing’s growing confidence and ability to project power—not only in the Taiwan Strait but across the Pacific and beyond.
To combat this threat, it is essential we reaffirm our commitment to our regional security partners. While Secretary Hegseth’s INDOPACOM visit was a critical step in reinforcing that this must be a shared burden, the U.S. needs to take the necessary steps to make certain that its warfighters are the most lethal, capable, and focused fighting force in the world.
Join Veterans on Duty and lend your voice to ensuring our nation remains strong in the face of aggression. Follow us on X, LinkedIn, and Facebook, and share this message with your fellow veterans, friends, and family.
Signed,
Hooff Cooksey
Executive Director, Veterans On Duty