Nation’s Leading Post-9/11 Generation Veterans Organization Weighs In Ahead of Debate Between Two Members of Our Community 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 
October 1, 2024
CONTACT: press@iava.org

New York, NY – Tonight’s debate between Governor Tim Walz and Senator J.D. Vance is historic. It will be the first time that two Post-9/11 generation veterans have met on a Vice Presidential debate stage. This will also be the first time a Post-9/11 veteran will be on this platform at all. 

Here are three questions Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA) believes the moderators should ask them to tap into their lived experience as veterans of the United States military as each man looks to be the #2 to the next Commander in Chief: 

1. Unlike most Americans, you both have had to report to a Commander in Chief. What makes you believe that your running mate is more fit to be Commander in Chief than their opponent? What’s the case that you’d make to your buddies who are still serving that they should vote for them? 

2. How well do you believe the United States has handled the Global War on Terrorism over the past 23 years? And can you name the places where troops are deployed today under the Authorization of Military Force (AUMF) that was passed in Congress in response to 9/11? 

3. You both volunteered to serve in today’s all-volunteer force. What’s the most important thing that the next Administration needs to do to ensure the future of the all-volunteer force remains bright? 

IAVA has been a vocal proponent of adding a post-9/11 generation veteran to the ticket in 2024. We lauded former President Trump for his choice of Marine Corps veteran Senator J.D Vance.  Called on Vice President Harris to also add a post-9/11 generation vet to the ticket. And applauded her for heeding our call with her selection of retired Army National Guardsman, Governor Tim Walz, as her running mate.  

It’s time for America to fully understand the value of having a post-9/11 veteran as the right hand to our next Commander in Chief.  

Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America is the leading voice of the Post-9/11 generation of American veterans. We represent over 425,000 members, and our best-in-class, non-partisan advocacy on behalf of the post-9/11 generation of veterans has chalked up big wins for our community – and America – for 20 years and counting.

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