Blog post

Today, Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA), the nation’s first and largest nonprofit, non-partisan organization for the veterans of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, issued the following statement on the upcoming Memorial Day holiday:

“Memorial Day marks a solemn time to honor all of the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice. Over one million servicemembers of all generations have given their lives in defense of our country. And just last week, we observed a grim milestone when the 1,000th servicemember was killed in Afghanistan.

For veterans, there is no other day of the year when the civilian-military divide feels greater. As most Americans head to the beach or the mall, many veterans and military families will travel to a cemetery. Memorial Day is a time to honor and remember all those who have died in defense of our nation. All Americans should take time on Monday to reflect on the importance of service and sacrifice.

Memorial Day is also an opportunity for the American public and the media to highlight the challenges facing new veterans. Iraq and Afghanistan veterans face significant hurdles as they transition home, including record levels of unemployment, an outdated disability claims process and inexcusable problems with the new GI Bill. We must remember what resources made WWII veterans America’s Greatest Generation, and ensure that the brave men and women fighting today are provided the same robust support."

IAVA leadership and members will participate in a range of Memorial Day events in Washington D.C. including Rolling Thunder (one of the largest motorcycle events in the country), laying a wreath at the Tomb of Unknown Soldier, and visiting Section 60 at Arlington National Cemetery.