IT'S NOT OVER

The war isn’t over yet

By Steve B. Brooks - May 5, 2011

 American Legion National Commander Jimmie Foster speaks to members of the National Executive Committee in Indianapolis during the Spring Meetings. Photo by James V. Carroll

The United States scored a major victory with the killing of Osama bin Laden. But during The American Legion’s Spring National Executive Committee Meetings in Indianapolis May 4-5, National Commander Jimmie L. Foster said the war against terrorism is far from over.

“The death of Osama bin Laden is a testament to the skill and bravery of the SEALS and intelligence operatives that carried out the raid,” Foster told the NEC. “It was an important victory in our global war on terrorism. More than 4,000 American servicemen and women have died and more than 40,000 (have been) wounded while serving in this war.

“The war is still not over, however. The evil ideology that spawned it still exists, and America must remain vigilant against the threats of Radical Islam.”

Part of fighting that war, Foster said, is making sure the servicemembers engaged in it are treated fairly. “We must provide them the resources that they need to succeed,” he said. “Through our programs, our advocacy and our outreach, The American Legion will continue to improve the quality of lives for these heroes and their families.”

That includes making sure U.S. servicemembers receive their full pay on time in the event of a future government shutdown. Plans were made to pay the military retroactively if a shutdown occurred.

“The American Legion issued a statement reminding those affected about the services we offer through Temporary Financial Assistance and the Family Support Network,” Foster said. “But there is only so much we can do. We cannot replace military paychecks. There is legislation in both chambers of Congress that would ensure that servicemembers will be paid on time in the event of future government shutdowns. The bills are H.R. 1297 and S. 777. Paying our troops on time for their outstanding work needs to be the law of the land.” 

Also along troop-support lines, Foster shared with the NEC a letter he received from Lt. Gen. George J. Flynn, commanding general of the U.S. Marine Corps Combat Development Command. The base requested, and was provided, equipment from the Legion to start a photography club for recovering Marines and sailors at Wounded Warrior Battalion West at Camp Pendleton.

“Your contribution and commitment of support to the brave men and women who have so courageously defended our great nation during a time of war is truly appreciated,” Flynn wrote. “I am pleased to let you know that the generosity you have shown to our Marines will make a positive difference in their lives.”

Foster said the donation is a perfect example of the Legion carrying out one of its core missions. “Yes, we are a great and influential grassroots lobbying group,” Foster said. “But it is our service – service to God, country and our communities – that sets us apart. We don’t just memorize and recite our Four Pillars – We live them.”

Foster called for Congress to enact legislation that will allow veterans to use Medicare at Department of Veterans Affairs health-care facilities, as well as legislation that will protect the U.S. flag from physical desecration. He also briefed the NEC on a “very productive meeting” with President Barack Obama in the White House on March 28. “Both the president and First Lady seem genuinely committed to improving the lives of military families,” Foster said.