Blog Post

Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans React to Death of Osama bin Laden
Posted by Paul Rieckhoff on May 3 2011

Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA), the country's first and largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization for veterans of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, issued the following statement in response to the death of Osama bin Laden:

“This is a proud day for America, and especially for every member of IAVA who has served in Iraq and Afghanistan since 9/11. The IAVA community congratulates our brave brothers and sisters involved in this historic operation.

We hope this news inspires renewed support and appreciation for the continuing sacrifice of our troops and veterans. More than 2.2 million service members have worked toward this day for almost 10 years and they all deserve praise,” said IAVA Founder and Executive Director Paul Rieckhoff, Iraq veteran and 9/11 first responder. “While this news brings closure to many Americans, it unfortunately does not eliminate the threat to our troops overseas. April was the deadliest month in Iraq in nearly two years, and over the weekend the Taliban launched another spring offensive in Afghanistan. America cannot afford to lose focus on our troops and their families at this critical time.

As Americans everywhere unite, we encourage them to reflect on the nearly 5,000 troops lost and wounded on the path to this historic moment. There are still many fights ahead, both overseas and here at home. We hope that the powerful, patriotic emotion of this news will carry over into lasting support for our returning troops, who are facing staggering employment, health and education challenges as they transition to civilian life."

Iraq or Afghanistan veteran? Join the discussion on this breaking news with fellow veterans inside our exclusive online network Community of Veterans. Or follow us for live updates on Twitter at @iava.

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