Vets for Freedom's Hegseth deploying to Afghanistan

VFF founder & Shenandoah County resident Wade Zirkle to be interim director

In 2011-2012, VFF executive director Pete Hegseth will deploy to Afghanistan with a Stryker battalion from the 25th Infantry Division. During that time, VFF founder and combat Marine Wade Zirkle will serve as VFF's interim executive director. God speed to Pete and all our troops in harm's way. From Vets For Freedom Executive Director Pete Hegseth....

Vets for Freedom members,

I will soon go on active duty in preparation for a combat deployment to Afghanistan later this year. It will be an honor to serve overseas again. As a result, later this month I will step down as executive director of VFF and Wade Zirkle--our organization's founder--will be the interim executive director.

Serving as your executive director for the past three years has been an incredible honor, and I'm very proud of what we've accomplished together. Most recently, VFF helped send 6 pro-victory Iraq and Afghanistan veterans to Congress--our new voices in Washington.

While in Afghanistan, and as the mission permits, I plan to send email updates from the front. If you'd like to receive my emails, sign up today at www.PeteHegseth.com.

2011 will be a critical year for our effort in Afghanistan, and I look forward to joining the long line of warriors who have fought to forge success on this important battlefield.

Moving out to draw fire,

Pete Hegseth
Executive Director, Vets for Freedom

P.S. You will not automatically receive my emails from Afghanistan. Sign up today at www.PeteHegseth.com to ensure you're added to the list.

Shenandoah County GOP dinner ... guests at the Yellow Barn

The Yellow Barn in Mt. Jackson welcomed guests of the Shenandoah County Republican Committee. Many thanks to Chairman Mike Monahan and Vice Chairman Jeremy McCleary for a wonderful event. Sue Hughes, president of the Republican Women, headed up the Silent Auction. Vito Gentile recognized notable faces in the crowd.

Speakers were Lt. Gov. Bill Bolling, Congressman Bob Goodlatte, state Sen. Mark Obenshain, Del. Todd Gilbert, and RPV Chairman Pat Mullins.

I was invited to join Shenandoah County residents Suzanne Curran and Tara and Daryl Bowman at their table along with Tara's mom and sister, Peggy and Christy Huffman. The fellowship at the table was wonderful and I thank them for their warm hospitality. It was also good to see Ken Cruise, the "Mob Czar," who was part of the group that went on the 9/12 Taxpayer March to DC.

Christy Huffman talked with Pete Larkin, who works for Congressman Bob Goodlatte in Roanoke.

Jon Comer (left) and Wade Zirkle (right).

Jon is a fellow blogger and chairman of the Page County GOP. Wade started "Vets for Freedom" about six years ago, is a veteran of Iraq, and an all-around great guy. We thank him for his service to this country.

Photos by SWAC Girl
Lynn Mitchell
25 March 2010

Vets for Freedom endorse candidates

On Tuesday Vets for Freedom rolled out the endorsements of 5 more candidates running for the United States Congress, most who have worn the uniform, all who strongly believe in the mission of our organization, as well as our nation's efforts in Iraq, Afghanistan, and the Global War on Terror.

The candidates include extraordinary Americans – patriots such as Tom Manion, who spent 20 years in the United States Marine Corps and who gave his son in service to our country. I encourage you to watch his VIDEO made in honor of his son Travis, who lost his life in Iraq in 2007.

Included in the list is Duane Sand from North Dakota, the gentleman I met at the 2000 Republican Convention in Philly and ran into again at the 2007 Americans For Prosperity Summit in D.C. I admire him for being willing to run for public office to stand up for what he believes.

Below are all of the candidates – help support them by visiting their websites.

Tom Manion (PA-08) is a former Colonel in the Marine Corps, successful business executive, and Gold Star Parent whose son was killed in Iraq.

Steve Stivers (OH-15) is a Lieutenant Colonel in the Army National Guard who was awarded the Bronze Star for actions in OIF.

Jeff Beatty (Senate–MA) is a former member of Delta Force, to FBI Hostage Rescue Team, to CIA's Counter-Terrorism Center.

Mike Rocque (NY-20) is a former officer in the Green Berets and Delta Force.

Allen West (FL-22) is a former LTC who served with distinction in Operation Desert Storm, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and Operation Enduring Freedom, earning a Bronze Star, three Meritorious Service Medals, three Army Commendation Medals (one with Valor), and a Valorous Unit Award.

Lee Zeldin (NY-1) served in Iraq with the 82nd Airborne Division and continues to serve as a Captain in the Army Reserves.

Duane Sand (ND-At Large) is a Commander in the Navy who served in Iraq, and aboard 3 nuclear submarines throughout the 1990's.

Kent Greenough (TN-04) is a former Marine whose family emulates service to ones country.

Tom Rooney (FL-16) served as an Army JAG for four years before teaching Constitutional and Criminal Law at the United States Military Academy at West Point.

Duncan Hunter (CA-52) signed up to serve our country the day after September 11th, and served two tours in Iraq and one in Afghanistan with the United States Marine Corps. He remains in the Marine Reserves.

John Cornyn (Senate–TX) is a first-term Texas Senator who is active in the Senate Armed Services Committee and a strong supporter of veterans and active duty military.

Dean Andal (CA-11) is a strong supporter of the military and veterans, and is a member of the Employer Support Council for the US National Guard.

Mark Ellmore (VA-08) is a Red Star parent whose son is currently deployed overseas in the Air Force.All of these men have either worn the uniform or understand what is at stake in the Global War on Terrorism, and will fight for victory if elected to Congress. Please visit our website for more information.

Vets for Freedom....

"You want to know who wants you to come home more than anybody? Al Qaeda because you're kicking their ass."

--Sen. Lindsay Graham to Vets for Freedom on Capitol Hill
April 10, 2008

Vets for Freedom in Norfolk on Sunday

On Sunday, April 6th, the Vets for Freedom Heroes Tour will make its way to Norfolk, Virginia. This will be the only stop for the tour in the Old Dominion. So, on behalf of all of VFF, I cordially invite you and all of your friends, family, and fellow vets to come to Norfolk and welcome our heroes.

You will be able to meet and honor some real American heroes, including:

* Marcus Luttrell, Former Navy SEAL, author of Lone Survivor, and recipient of the Navy Cross;
* Steve Russell, recipient of the Bronze Star for Valor and led the battalion that captured Saddam Hussein;
* Jeremiah Workman, United States Marine Corps, recipient of the Navy Cross for heroic actions while under fire in Fallujah; and
* Tom Parks, United States Marine Corps, recipient of the Silver Star for heroic actions while under fire in Al Kut.

The event planned for Sunday is a great one:

* The Norfolk Tides have declared Sunday, Vets for Freedom Day at the ball park.
* It starts at 11:30 AM at 150 Park Ave, Norfolk, VA 23510.
* It is open to the public, so come join us, enjoy America's pastime, and help us spread our message to America.

If you would like to join our tour before the game, you can meet up with us in Norfolk at 10:00 am on April 6 at the Hampton Inn Naval Base/Norfolk, 8501 Hampton Blvd., Norfolk, VA 23505.

Additionally, there is an opportunity for a select few to ride with the tour on our bus from Richmond to DC. This will be open to only a few; you will need to provide your own transportation back to your home. If you are interested, email me.

Again, join us and help make this a great turnout. You will be glad to you. If you cannot make it, please consider making a donation to help fund the tour:

Thank you for your continued service to our nation. I'll see you at the game.

Sic semper tyrannis,

Edward Slavis
Iraq War Vet
Vets for Freedom Virginia State Captain
virginiavets@vetsforfreedom.org

Vets for Freedom: National Heroes Tour coming to Richmond

Many of America’s most decorated war heroes from Iraq and Afghanistan have packed their bags and are hitting the road on a national bus tour to take their non-partisan message of progress and freedom from coast-to-coast.

The Vets for Freedom National Heroes Tour is about supporting our troops, honoring their commitment, and rallying the country to complete the missions in Iraq and Afghanistan.

At this critical juncture in our country, we need Americans, lawmakers and the media, to fully recognize—and appreciate—the sacrifice of our brave military and the dramatic success they have achieved, especially in Iraq with the new counterinsurgency strategy.

The tour will roll into Richmond, Virginia, on Monday, April 7. Come out, meet some American heroes, and SUPPORT OUR TROOPS! Check the website in the upcoming weeks for more details.

Vets for Freedom: "The surge is working ... let's win before we leave"

Last week, in London's grand Westminster Hall, I had the distinct privilege and honor to represent Vets for Freedom during a debate hosted by Intelligence Squared, the most prominent debating forum in Europe. Along with my esteemed debating partner William Shawcross, we were able to achieve a dramatic and unexpected victory with the sold-out audience of over 2,200 by overwhelmingly swaying them to defend the motion, "The surge is working, let's win before we leave."

Of the 455 undecided voters who arrived in the hall, over half (234) later voted to support victory rather than defeat. By contrast, only 131 voted in favor of the motions "leave Iraq now" or "negotiated settlement."

Overwhelmingly, previously undecided voters left the hall convinced that we must win in Iraq. I was expecting a hostile audience, but these results prove that, with the credibility that we as veterans bring to the debate, it is not too late to shape the public's perception of the war in Iraq.

The debate will be shown in its entirety on BBC World during the weekend of January 5th, and Vets for Freedom will send out a notice when it appears. In the meantime, visit this website for a podcast of the debate.

In other news, I am proud to announce that Vets for Freedom recently released an ad titled "Senator Mitch McConnell" to thank and recognize the steadfast support Leader McConnell (R-KY) has given to the brave men and women who have and are currently wearing our nation's uniform. The ad will be running in the Louisville and Lexington markets in Kentucky through December 18th. To view the ads, please visit our website.

In addition to the op-ed from last weekend's Washington Post op-ed co-authored by Major General John Batiste, USA (Ret.), and myself, Vets for Freedom made headlines in the Washington Times on December 11th. Titled "American Troops are Winning," the piece argues that Congress needs to fund the troops in Iraq and Afghanistan before they go home for Christmas.

Finally, tomorrow Vets for Freedom will be launching our new website. This has been a work in progress for the better part of two months, and I'm confident you'll enjoy the new site.

THIS WEEK'S ACTION ITEM - GET AT LEAST 5 FRIENDS, SUPPORTERS AND/OR VETERANS TO SIGN UP ON OUR SITE.

The men and women who wear our nation's uniform represent the best America has to offer. As we all sit down with our friends and loved ones this holiday season, it is my hope that all Americans give thanks to the sacrifice bore by soldiers, sailors, airmen and marines. May we pray for their safe return, and for continued victory in the battlefields of the Global War on Terror.

A very Merry Christmas, and a Happy, Healthy & Safe New Year to each of you.


Warm Regards,

Pete Hegseth
Executive Director
Vets for Freedom

Tonight: Debate on Iraq held in London

Tonight: Vets For Freedom's Pete Hegseth at London debate on Iraq

For the past six months, Vets for Freedom has taken the lead in America in explaining—and supporting—the new counter-insurgency strategy being implemented with great success in Iraq.

Tonight, December 11, we will take that message to the world.

This evening, Pete Hegseth, Executive Director of Vets for Freedom, will represent our country during a debate in London about the future of Iraq. The debate will be hosted by Intelligence Squared, the most prominent debating forum in Europe, and will be broadcast on BBC World television, which has an audience of over 76 million people worldwide.

Hegseth will join prominent British author William Shawcross by promoting the motion that states, “the surge is working, let’s win before we leave.” They will be debating against four other panelists, among them Ali Allawi, former Iraqi Minister of Defense, and Tony Benn, the President of Britain’s “Stop the War Coalition” and 40-year member of the British parliament.

Hegseth will give 8 minutes of remarks and then participate in an hour of debate and Q&A. At the conclusion of the debate, the sold-out London audience will vote on the motion.

“What an incredible opportunity to represent our country and speak directly to the world about the incredible progress happening in Iraq,” said Hegseth. “BBC World is watched around the globe, and this is an opportunity to represent our country and our military in order to dispel myths about our mission and conduct in Iraq."

Click here for more information about the debate.

The debate will be taped and broadcast on BBC World at a later date, and Vets for Freedom will provide air times when they become available.

Enjoy the debate,

Pete Hegseth
Iraq War Veteran
Executive Director, Vets for Freedom

Progress in Iraq

From Vets For Freedom:

There is no denying it anymore—even the mainstream media is reporting the incredible progress in Iraq, and giving credit where credit is due: General Petraeus's new counter-insurgency plan and the local political progress it has enabled.

On November 18, the Washington Post editorialized that "By every metric used to measure the war…there has been an enormous improvement since January."

In this week's edition of Newsweek reporter Rod Nordland writes upon his return to Iraq that, "I can actually say that things do seem to have gotten better, and in ways that may even be durable… There hasn't been a successful suicide car bombing in Baghdad in five weeks… Al Qaeda in Iraq is starting to look like a spent force, especially in Baghdad."

And the New York Times actually reported that, "Casualties suffered by Iraqi security forces…were down 40 percent since the beginning of the troop reinforcement plan. Civilian fatalities in Baghdad…were down 75 percent in recent months. In some areas, the attacks have not been so low since the spring and summer of 2005."

To Vets for Freedom members, these facts come as no surprise. But, apparently, the leadership in Congress still doesn't get it. Despite overwhelming progress in Iraq, Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Majority Leader Harry Reid continue to play politics with the troops…and their wartime funding.

General Petraeus's new strategy is working and our troops are routing Al Qaeda and making incredible progress in Iraq. Our troops, along with our Iraqi allies, are certainly doing their part—so why won't Congress act?

WILL YOU WRITE A LETTER TO THE EDITOR?

This week, we urgently need all Vets for Freedom members to write a short Letter to the Editor in their local newspaper, talking about the progress in Iraq and encouraging their member of Congress to fund the troops—without timelines or deadlines for defeat.

In order to make this easy, Vets for Freedom has invested in new technology to make writing to your local newspaper easier than ever! Just follow these 3 easy steps, and you're done:

1. Go to the Vets for Freedom homepage and click on the "Contact the Media" button on the right. It's the button with the rotating newspapers.

2. Enter your Zip Code and click on the local newspaper (or newspapers) of your choice.

3. Compose a letter (200 words or less) and send it to your paper through our site.

It's that easy! We have also provided suggested bullet points in the "Letters to the Editor" section that you can use to craft your letter. We have included the most important three points below:

1. As a direct result of the new counter-insurgency strategy implemented by General David Petraeus, real and sustainable progress is being made in Iraq.

2. General Petraeus, and all 160,000 troops in Iraq, deserve immediate funding-without timelines—in order to continue defeating Al Qaeda and Iranian-backed militias.

3. Without money from Congress, our troops will not have the ability to complete the mission and leave behind a stable Iraq, especially in a timely manner.

For even more material, visit the Vets for Freedom website to see our "Progress in Iraq" section and get the latest facts about both military and political progress in Iraq.

We are winning the war in Iraq – and the American people need to hear about it. Do your part to ensure that they read about it in the paper this week. It's the least you can do, and it does make a difference.

Move out and draw fire!


Pete Hegseth
Executive Director
Vets for Freedom

Vets For Freedom ... Veterans Day 2007

Dear Vets for Freedom Members,

Veterans Day isn’t about media appearances, press releases, the Troop Blog, or even the Freedom Update. It’s about honoring those who serve, today, and every day. So we took down the website for the weekend and did something a bit different. Take a look – www.VetsForFreedom.org.

Sincerely,

Pete Hegseth
Vets for Freedom

Why the Surge is working

No "Nightmare" -- Why "Surge" Is Working by Pete Hegseth
New York Post -- October 23, 2007

The former top commander in Iraq - Army Lt.-Gen. Ricardo Sanchez (ret.) - recently called the situation in Iraq "a nightmare with no end in sight." Citing insufficient prewar planning and a strained military, he painted a dismal picture of American prospects there.

War critics painted a similar picture when violence in Iraq peaked in '05 and '06 - using terms like "civil war" and "sectarian violence" - as they pushed for a rapid draw-down or immediate withdrawal of U.S. forces. An Iraq "at war with itself" shouldn't be America's problem, they argued. In fact, the existence of a "religious civil war" remains the chief antiwar talking point to this day.

Problem is, the new U.S. strategy has changed the facts on the grounds.

A year ago, the assertions of Sanchez and the antiwar critics were an accurate description of the violence throughout Iraq: Armed death squads freely roamed the streets in Baghdad and outlying areas, responding to massive bombings committed by al Qaeda. And vice versa. Each week saw hundreds of innocent Iraqis - the victims of sectarian attacks and reprisals - kidnapped and killed. Worst of all, compromised members of the security forces (Iraqis in uniform) were complicit in many killings.

I was in Samarra on Feb. 22, 2005, the day al Qaeda-affiliated insurgents destroyed the dome of the Golden Mosque, and am very familiar with the violence that followed. That event was a catalyst for widespread violence in Iraq. Destroying a Muslim place of worship was indicative of al Qaeda's overall strategy: foment violence, maintain instability, and intimidate the local population. And it worked.

The critics had a point: American soldiers were simply caught in the middle - not permitted to take action to stop the violence, and yet still very much in harm's way. But what the critics failed to see was that it didn't have to be that way - that what the troops lacked was an adaptive strategy that recognized and addressed underlying causes of the violence.

Enter Gen. David Petraeus and a strategy that did just that. (The term "surge" is far too simplistic, as it implies simply throwing more forces at the problem, when Petraeus' changes in tactics are even more important).

The new counterinsurgency approach - namely, to take territory from al Qaeda, hold it, secure it and empower tribal sheiks to work together and rebuild their communities - finally provides an effective "counteroffensive" to the chief tactics of al Qaeda militants and Shiite death squads.

America's enemies in Iraq, radical insurgents living and fighting among the general public, understand that they can't continue their fight without capitulation from ordinary Iraqis. Finally, after almost four years, the U.S. military understands this as well.

Whereas we used to emphasize overwhelming firepower (even when I was there in 2006), we now emphasize firepower as a last resort. Whereas we used to rush to the scene after the violence occurs, we're now there to repel it or deter it altogether.

This commitment - up and down the chain of command - has made a major impact on the tit-for-tat death toll that was threatening to tear the country apart. Sectarian violence has been severely curtailed.

Since last December, sectarian deaths throughout Iraq have dropped over 50 percent; overall attacks against civilians are down 50 percent. In Baghdad - the focal point of Petraeus' strategy - sectarian deaths are down almost 80 percent in 10 months and large al Qaeda-style truck and suicide bombings have dropped over 50 percent.

Moreover, ordinary Iraqis are providing far more tips and other information. We now get some 23,000 tips a month, four to five times the level of a year before. This measure - which directly correlates to the trust and support of the population - is promising.

These are significant and consequential numbers and indicate real successes in stomping out the civil war. But it's not just numbers that make the case that the civil war is ending. Look, too, at what the new strategy lets commanders do in their now-daily discussions with ordinary Iraqis.

Petraeus reports that foreign (non-Iraqi) recruits conduct over 80 percent of al Qaeda's attacks; and therefore, by refocusing local tribal leaders on this fact, American commanders are making a convincing argument to the sheiks: Why launch an indiscriminate reprisal against another sect, ratcheting up the level of violence, when you can simply tell us and Iraqi security forces where the foreign insurgents are and we'll go get them? The numbers say that's exactly what's happening.

A people drowning in sectarian violence and warped by perpetual vengeance aren't going to immediately engage in political reconciliation. Security improvements must first dampen the violence, lower tensions and restore humanity. This is exactly what Petraeus has done, and we have finally begun providing the tangible security improvements necessary for lasting political solutions at the local and national levels.

Although many hope to convince America otherwise, the Iraq war has fundamentally changed in '07. It's not a civil war anymore. It's the people of Iraq vs. al Qaeda and Iranian proxies, with the U.S.-led Coalition helping the Iraqi people swing their sword of sovereignty.

That's the kind of good news that people on both sides of the aisle should appreciate.
-------
Pete Hegseth, a first lieutenant in the Army National Guard, is executive director of Vets for Freedom. He served in Iraq with the 101st Airborne Division from September '05 to July '06.

Hundreds of Vets for Freedom converge on Congress...

Did you hear about the Vets for Freedom rally that brought out hundreds of veterans and their families to encourage and urge Congress to support victory in Iraq? I didn't think so ... because the mainstream media has been silent on the issue. Josh over at Win the War they has a post about it that you really should check out.

Also ... welcome to Michael Volpe, new editor at Win the War. Josh Levy has done a wonderful job; I'm sure Michael will do the same. Glad to have you on board!

TODAY! The Eagles are soaring ... Win the War!

"… An eagle knows when a storm is approaching long before it breaks. The eagle will fly to some high spot and wait for the winds to come. When the storm hits, it sets its wings so that the wind will pick it up and lift it above the storm. While the storm rages below, the eagle is soaring above it."

The Eagles are soaring in D.C. and throughout the country so come Support the Troops today!

A Gathering of Eagles

to

Support the Troops

&

Win the War!

on

Saturday, September 15, 2007

12:00 Noon - 1:00 p.m.

Downtown Staunton
at the Courthouse (corner of Johnson & Augusta St)

We will have signs and American flags
or bring your own

We will stand in support of the thousands of American veterans and ordinary citizens who will be in Washington, D.C. today to face the angry anti-war protesters who plan to march on the White House at noon.

Free parking available one-half block away on Johnson Street.

Info: SWAC Girl

Links:

- Gathering of Eagles: Anti-war movements death throes

- America's Victory 08: The Blogs on GOE III

Vets for Freedom on Fox News respond to traiterous MoveOn.org ad in NY Times

Breaking ...

Pete Hedgseth, Executive Director of Vets for Freedom, appeared this morning on Fox News Channel to speak out against the traiterous full-page MoveOn.org ad in today's New York Times.

The ad, which features a photo of General David Petreaus, who has served this country for 35 years with honor, distinction, and integrity, asks the question:

"General Petraeus or General Betray Us? Cooking the books for the White House."

In an unusual move for a White House that generally refrains from discussing such things, Tony Snow, spokesman for the President, addressed the issue by calling the ad borish, childish, and unworthy ... and he called on members of Congress to condemn it.

Gen. Petraeus is to present his report on Iraq today to Congress. Isn't running an ad on the same day a little preemptive? Disingenuous? Un-American?

We owe a debt of gratitude to veterans such as Pete Hedgseth who have been to Iraq, have fought the enemy, and who are willing to publicly stand up to say, "Support the mission. Surrender is not an option!"

NY Times afraid of the truth? Refuses to print Iraqi vets' op-ed response....

Iraq Vets Respond ... to the New York Times seven

Op-Ed written by: David Bellavia, Pete Hegseth, Michael Baumann, Carl Hartmann, David Thul, Knox Nunnally and Joe Worley - August 24, 2007

ON SUNDAY, seven soldiers from the 2nd Brigade of the 82nd Airborne Division stationed in Iraq penned a passionate opinion piece in the New York Times that further illustrates the complexity of what is "really" happening in Iraq.

Of the almost 3,000 soldiers from the Army's storied 82nd Airborne Division currently serving in the hottest of Iraqi neighborhoods, seven felt confident enough in their misgivings to sign an opinion piece. They should not be surprised that many of their comrades--including the seven undersigned here--find their work to be misguided.

The 2nd Brigade is responsible for two dangerous areas of Baghdad: Adihamiyah and Sadr City. Airborne troopers there have seen the worst al Qaeda and the Mahdi Army can throw at them and the Iraqi people. But the whole story is that the Iraqis and soldiers in their sector have not yet been fully affected by the surge of troops and operations, which have barely been in place two months.

Currently, American and Iraqi Forces are clearing sections of southern Baghdad before turning north to the 82nd Airborne's neighborhoods. As such, the portrait these soldiers painted, while surely accurate and honest, is more representative of pre-surge Baghdad: sectarian strife, lawlessness, and indiscriminate slaughter. This is not, however, the picture elsewhere in Iraq, or even most of Baghdad.

Additional American combat brigades first surged to the outlying areas around the capital, disrupting the flow of suicide bombers and car bombs and denying haven to al Qaeda. The result? Attacks against civilians are at a six-month low and large al Qaeda-style truck and suicide bombings have dropped 50 percent in Baghdad.

With additional troops and a sound strategy, the same results can occur in even the worst areas of Baghdad, including the 82nd Airborne's sector. Take Anbar Province. In 2006, al Qaeda controlled the capital of Ramadi and Marine intelligence officers declared the province effectively lost. A leaked Marine Corps report concluded, "The prospects for securing western Anbar province are dim and there is almost nothing the U.S. military can do to improve the political and social situation there."

Today Ramadi is peaceful and Anbar no longer a haven for al Qaeda. The tribal awakening that brought about political reconciliation and stability in Ramadi and Anbar primarily resulted from an improved security environment provided by American forces.

Americans not only cleared Ramadi, they also held it by occupying over 65 outposts. This security environment allowed local tribal leaders to stand up to their former al Qaeda occupiers, and now American and Iraqi forces are improving security beyond Anbar in places like Diyala and Babil Provinces.

The 82nd Airborne soldiers quoted an Iraqi saying, "We need security, not free food." We could not agree more, and what American and Iraqi forces are doing now--for the first time in this war--is providing lasting security at the neighborhood level after driving insurgents out.

It's true that political reconciliation has not suited so-called "benchmarks," but political progress will only happen when the battlefield and political realities are congruent. We know that street level security is a necessary precondition for real political progress, and as such, the preconditions are finally being fulfilled. And as we've seen, Iraqi leaders--whether Sunni or Shia--will stand up for moderation and stability only when provided with a secure environment in which to do so.

We understand the frustration our fellow soldiers feel. All of us were in Iraq before the "surge" and lament never seeing a coherent, security-based counterinsurgency strategy. In truth, we were only clearing--not holding. But we also know what's possible when even small portions of counterinsurgency strategy are applied. Insurgents are exposed, leaders stand up, and stability occurs.

General David Petraeus and Ambassador Ryan Crocker understand the principles of counterinsurgency and are applying them up and down the chain of command. It's unfortunate that soldiers in the 82nd Airborne have not yet benefited from the new strategy, but it will ensure that their actions, and those of their fallen brethren, will not have been in vain.

Meanwhile, we applaud our brothers in the 82nd Airborne for their courage under fire, thank them for their commitment to our nation, and pray for the recovery of their injured co-author.

Note: David Bellavia, Pete Hegseth, Michael Baumann, Carl Hartmann, David Thul, Knox Nunnally, and Joe Dan Worley all served with either the Army or Marine Corps in Iraq, and are all members of Vets for Freedom.

This Op-Ed was originally submitted to the New York Times, which declined to publish it.

Click here for more information on Vets for Freedom.

From FreedomsWatch.org: Pro-mission ads

For the past few months, Vets for Freedom has been on the front lines of the Iraq war debate in America, with only a few allies.

But this morning, in a very real sense, the cavalry appeared on the horizon in the form of a new organization called Freedom's Watch. Freedom's Watch has launched a multi-state advertising campaign featuring powerful stories from veterans and families that every household in America should hear.

It's time that the rest of America heard the words of soldiers who have served (and been wounded) in Iraq and the stories of families who have lost loved ones there.

The new commercials can be watched here.

If these videos speak to you - and we believe they will - call our representatives and tell them defeat is not an option.

Senator John Warner (R-Virginia) -- 540-857-2676
Senator Jim Webb (D-Virginia) -- 540-772-4236
Congressman Bob Goodlatte (R-Virginia 6th District) -- 540-885-3861

Thank you for joining us at this ever critical time.

Regards,
Pete Hegseth
Iraq War Veteran 2005-2006
Executive Director, Vets for Freedom

Click here for more information on Vets for Freedom.

Vets for Freedom ... Get active in your State

WEEK 5: Get Active in Your State!

This week, and for the entire month of August, members of Congress will return home to hear from constituents ... and Vets for Freedom will be there to meet them. As we announced 2 weeks ago, we are mobilizing Iraq and Afghanistan veterans to engage members of Congress during the entire month of August and tell them that General Petraeus needs adequate troops, time, and resources to complete the mission in Iraq.

We already have "State Captains" in over 25 states -- and the number is growing every day. State Captains will organize local veterans to attend town hall meetings, write letters-to-the-editor, appear on talk radio, and host Vets for Freedom events. Why, you ask, is this necessary?

Because MoveOn.org, and their paid anti-war protestors, plan to descend upon our local communities to impose their will by shouting, chanting, and intimidating members of Congress.

We need local Iraq and Afghanistan veterans, as well as those who support them, to stand up to these political operatives and tell members of Congress that we believe in the mission in Iraq and that we cannot afford to surrender to Al Qaeda. America has been waiting three years for a winning strategy in Iraq, and we finally have one in General Petraeus's counter-insurgency strategy; Al Qaeda in Iraq is on the run, and rouge militias are being marginalized. We must do everything we can to make sure Congress doesn't surrender in Iraq, just as we are turning the corner there.

What You Can Do This Week!
Below is a very simple list of tangible ways you can get involved in your local community, city, & state. We need your help, and more importantly, the soldiers in Iraq and Afghanistan need your help.

* Be on the lookout for Town Hall Meetings. We need pro-mission veterans and citizens at every single town hall meeting in August, encouraging members of Congress to support the mission in Iraq. If you find out about a Town Hall meeting in your state, do two things: 1) Attend! 2) Let us know at joel@vetsforfreedom.org.

* Call your Senators and Representatives. Call their offices in your home state and ask them about any events being held in your area in August. Also, tell them you support the mission in Iraq . Use the links below to find the phone numbers for your members of Congress: Contacting your U.S. Senators
Contacting your U.S. Representatives.

When you call, the following 3 points should be emphasized:

1) General Petraeus deserves enough time to implement a winning counter-insurgency strategy in Iraq.

2) Retreat means a failed state in Iraq and a safe haven for Al Qaeda to plan future attacks against America and her allies.

3) Decisions about Iraq should be made by military commanders and generals on the ground-not politicians in Washington, DC.

* Volunteer to be a State Captain. We currently have a strong slate of State Captains, including some states with multiple Captains! Please help us add to this list. If you are interested, or know somebody who should be, email joel@vetsforfreedom.org.

* Volunteer in your state. Even if you can't commit to being a State Captain, let us know if we can count on you to get involved. Veteran or non-veteran, we appreciate your support. Let us know at joel@vetsforfreedom.org.

* Sign Up to Show Up in September. We still need more veterans to sign up early and join us on September 17 & 18 at our nation's capitol.

Just send an email to events@vetsforfreedom.org with your name, military bio, your home state, and contact information. Once we receive this information we can start the process of arranging your travel and scheduling your appointments in Washington, DC.

The way I see it, in military terms, we are "prepping the battlefield" in August to ensure that Congress votes the right way in September when the Iraq debate is raging.

Move out and draw fire!

Regards,
Pete Hegseth
Iraq War Veteran 2005-2006
Executive Director, Vets for Freedom

Click here for more information on Vets for Freedom's "10 Weeks to Testimony."

Vets for Freedom
PO Box 314
Woodstock, VA 22664

Tomorrow -- Join Vets for Freedom on Capitol Hill!

Tuesday, July 17, 2007 -- Show solidarity & support for war in Iraq

Tomorrow, Iraq and Afghanistan veterans from around the country will converge on Capitol Hill to meet with their senators--face-to-face--and tell them not to undermine General Petraeus and the new strategy. The response from vets has been very strong and is gaining momentum every hour.

Already, at least 25 veterans from around the country--on very short notice and on their own dime--have committed to traveling to Washington, DC from as far as Texas, Missouri, Michigan, and Florida. Our vets have small group meetings scheduled with a number of prominent--yet wobbly--senators, and will also have a group meeting with Senate leaders to discuss Iraq war policy. In addition, be on the lookout for our afternoon press conference, which will take place just off the Senate floor.

It's not too late for you to join us! If you'd like to come, just go to www.vetsforfreedom.org/tenweeks and sign up. Or RSVP with Adriel Domenech, our Field Director, at 501-412-1224. I hope vets in local states--Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Delaware, New Jersey, New York--will consider taking the day-off and making the trip. It's not much to ask...and will be worth your time.

And again, if you're not sure if you should get involved, check out what radical anti-war groups are planning. They go so far as to "express solidarity with the resistance movements in [Iraq and Afghanistan]." People like this are on Capitol Hill every day and we can't let their loud voices be the only ones Congress hears. There is too much at stake.

Two Urgent Action Items:
1) Sunday's New York Times included an egregious front-page article about how, supposedly, military families are turning against the war in droves. The piece is full of anecdotes, and short on fact. Please write a brief letter to the editor today, taking issue with the story. Click here to read the article. Send your letters to: letters@nytimes.com. Keep them short (less than 150 words) and make clear which story you are responding to (also include your address and phone number). The most powerful story you can tell is your own, but also feel free to cite some of the facts below:

The story mentions a group called 'Iraq Veterans Against the War', which was started in 2004 and boasts 500 members. But it failed to mention Vets for Freedom, which was started in 2006 (two years later) and already has over 5,000 Iraq and Afghanistan veterans members who believe in the mission. (www.VetsforFreedom.org)

The story mentions a group called "Military Families Speak Out" which was started in 2002 and boasts 3,500 member families. But it failed to mention "Families United for our Troops and Their Mission" which was started in August, 2005 and already has 37,000 members who believe in the mission. (http://www.familiesunitedmission.com)

The story mentions a group called "Appeal for Redress" which was started in September 2006 and boasts 2,000 members. But it failed to mention the "Appeal for Courage," which was also started in 2006 and already has over 3,300 members who believe in the mission. (www.AppealforCourage.org)

Side note: Vets for Freedom is coordinating with both Families United and Appeal for Courage to ensure maximum effectiveness.

2) Don't forget to call the 2 Senators from Virginia on Tuesday to reinforce the efforts of our "Vets on the Hill": John Warner (202) 224-202311), Jim Webb (202) 224-4024.

Together, our voices will be heard on Capitol Hill and throughout America--because the vast majority of troops and their families support the mission, and believe General Petraeus should be given the time and resources he needs to succeed.

Thank you for all your efforts and support. God bless,

Pete Hegseth
Iraq War Veteran 2005-2006
Executive Director, Vets for Freedom

Go to Vets for Freedom/10 weeks for the latest on the "10 Weeks to Testimony." Click here to Donate to Vets for Freedom.

Week 2: Vets for Freedom Call to Action....

From Vets for Freedom:

Last week, Vets for Freedom launched our "10 Weeks to Testimony" campaign and committed to leading the charge to support General Petraeus and stop anti-war radicals and politicians on Capitol Hill from undermining the mission in Iraq.

Unfortunately -- despite thousands of phone calls to Capitol Hill this week-- even more Republican senators have bowed to political pressure and declared defeat, despite progress being shown by General Petraeus's new counter-insurgency strategy.

Next week, politicians in Washington, DC, are poised to sell out America's safety because election season is near.

As veterans, we cannot allow this to happen. The information battle Vets for Freedom was planning for September is upon us in July; therefore, we must adapt, overcome, and do something immediately. Our collective voice must be heard on Capitol Hill, and it must be heard now!

This is a call to action.

We are asking every Iraq and Afghanistan veteran who believes in supporting the mission -- and defeating America's enemies -- to converge on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC, on Tuesday, July 17. It's time the fighters in this war tell their representatives--face to face-that now is no time to betray the mission.

What You Can Do This Week!

Week #2: Converge on Capitol Hill, July 17
Iraq and Afghanistan veterans have already sacrificed blood, sweat, and tears on foreign battlefields. Now America needs one more thing while you're home -- one day of your time. We are the last line of defense. We're not going to protest, wave signs, or scream slogans. We are going to make our voices heard, in a professional manner, in keeping with the finest traditions of our great country and military. I have no doubt you will want to join us.

But you say: "It's an entire Tuesday, and travel is expensive!"

We share these legitimate concerns, but answer with this fundamental question: If not you, then who? Who else will tell Congress to give General Petraeus, his strategy, and our comrades time to complete the mission? It has come to this. It must be us.

But you also say: "It's such short notice, and I have to work."

Again, legitimate concerns, but we have already received commitments from numerous veterans with full-time jobs who have said -- no matter the notice -- I'll be there. We need the same from you. Your country needs the same from you.

You might also say, "I'm Active Duty, I can't do this type of stuff."

There is a common misconception that troops serving on active duty cannot participate in events like this. This is false. As long as you are:

1) out of uniform;
2) not speaking on behalf of "the military"; and
3) not protesting, you are absolutely allowed to be involved.

The same goes for National Guard and Reserve troops.

We hope to raise enough money--from the supporters of Vets for Freedom who cannot make it to Washington, DC--to ensure that everyone who makes the trip is reimbursed at some level. Every dollar donated to Vets for Freedom between now and July 17 will go directly to covering travel costs of veterans.

So, how do you get involved? Be bold. Take a stand. And join your fellow Soldiers, Airmen, Sailors, and Marines on Capitol Hill.

Here's what you need to do:

Iraq & Afghanistan Veterans
If you are a veteran and are ready to take a stand and join us on Capitol Hill on July 17, please send an email to Adriel at adriel@vetsforfreedom.org as soon as possible. The email should contain the following 6 points of information:

1)Name and basic information (phone number, email, and zip code)
2) Military background (OIF/OEF experience, unit, current status)
3) Home state (and any other states you have lived in)
4) Your most probable means of transportation to Washington, DC
5) A very brief biography (no more than one paragraph)
6) Any questions you might have.

When Vets for Freedom receives your email, we will email you the following information as soon as possible:

1) Time and place for initial link up in Washington, DC (assume between 8--9am)
2) Driving directions, maps, and parking instructions
3) Basic timeline/instructions for the day (assume day will finish between 5--6pm)
4) Other preparation materials

When you arrive in Washington, DC on Tuesday morning, you will receive an in-brief and Vets for Freedom will provide you with the following:

1) Detailed itinerary (including your office visit schedule, media schedule, and event schedule to visit your member of Congress--everything will be done in groups)
2) Latest Iraq news and information
3) Capitol Hill map
4) Vets for Freedom complementary polo shirt; breakfast and lunch provided.

Supporters of Our Veterans
You may not be able to make it to Washington, DC, but that doesn't mean you can't still support our mission on July 17. You can do the following three things:

1) Donate. As we've already mentioned, every dollar donated in the next 4 days will be used to reimburse the travel costs of veterans who will be paying their own way to Capitol Hill.
2) Call your Senator. The response to our Week 1 "call to action" was incredible. Thank you. Thousands of calls were made, and we need to do this again. Reinforce our veterans on Capitol Hill by calling the 2 Senators from your home state on July 17 and telling them to support the troops-and the mission!
3) Forward this Email. Send this email to everyone you know. Post it on your blog. Print it out and hand it out to friends. Get the word out, so we can get as many veterans on Capitol Hill as possible.

This is our mission. This is our moment. Join Vets for Freedom on Capitol Hill and do your part to support our fellow soldiers and Marines in Iraq and Afghanistan See you on the 17th!

Regards,
Pete Hegseth
Iraq War Veteran 2005-2006
Executive Director, Vets for Freedom
PO Box 314
Woodstock, VA 22664

Vets for Freedom ... Win the War!

From VetsforFreedom.org

The next ten weeks will be absolutely crucial in determining the fate of the Iraq War. Over the summer, Democrats (and some Republicans) on Capitol Hill, pressured by radical anti-war activists, plan to introduce legislation to undermine the mission in Iraq, just as General Petraeus, and his counter-insurgency strategy, are showing real signs of progress.

Despite the great courage and success of our troops in Iraq, many Senate Republicans are wavering in their support for the mission. And in the past two weeks alone, 3 Republican senators have raised the white flag on Iraq. If just a few more defect, the Senate could over-ride a presidential veto and set a deadline for defeat.

Amongst this political noise, in ten weeks General Petraeus will testify before Congress about the situation in Iraq. Vets for Freedom plans to lead the charge to support General Petraeus and stop anti-war radicals and politicians on Capitol Hill from undermining the troops-and their mission-for the sake of short-term political gain.

If you believe America must defeat radical Islamists in Iraq, we need you to get involved with Vets for Freedom's "Ten Weeks to Testimony."

For the next ten weeks, you will receive an email every Monday morning, outlining how you can make a difference during that week. This is a call to duty! The time for action is now!

And if you're not sure if you should get involved, check out what radical anti-war groups are planning. They go so far as to "express solidarity with the resistance movements in [Iraq and Afghanistan]."

This is an outrage, and we mustn't let groups like this -- and their loud voices -- intimidate Congress. There is too much as stake!

What You Can Do This Week!

Week #1: Call 10 Senators
Below is a list of 9 Republican Senators who -- this week -- could end up wavering on their support for the mission in Iraq. Over the course of the week, call all 9 senators -- and call at least one senator from your home state. These senators need to hear from Iraq & Afghanistan veterans, and those who support them, about the need to complete the mission in Iraq and defeat Al Qaeda & Co. When you call, the following 3 points should be emphasized:

1) General Petraeus deserves enough time to implement a winning counter-insurgency strategy in Iraq.

2) Retreat means a failed state in Iraq and a safe haven for Al Qaeda to plan future attacks against America and her allies.

3) Decisions about Iraq should be made by military commanders and generals on the ground --not politicians in Washington, DC.

For more tips and information about what to say when you call, please read the "Call Tips" section at the end of this email.

We have provided a word-for-word script. Here is the list of Republican senators to call:

1) Lamar Alexander, Tennessee: (202) 224-4944
2) Sam Brownback, Kansas: (202) 224-6521
3) Saxby Chambliss, Georgia: (202) 224-3521
4) Norm Coleman, Minnesota: (202) 224-5641
5) Susan Collins, Maine: (202) 224-2523
6) Michael Enzi, Wyoming: (202) 224-3424
7) Jeff Sessions, Alabama: (202) 224-4124
8) Ted Stevens, Alaska: (202) 224-3004
9) John Sununu, New Hampshire: (202) 224-2841
10) John Warner, Virginia: (202) 224-2023
11) Jim Webb, Virginia: (202) 224-4024

When you're done with the calls, just shoot a quick email to info@vetsforfreedom.org and let us know. We will compile the volume of calls and make sure our presence is heard. If you had any particularly interesting exchanges, we'd love to hear about it.

* Remember: 10 calls will take less than 30 minutes. Please do your duty for the country today!

Additional Vets for Freedom Information
1) Visit Vets for Freedom and check out the new website format. We have added the "Freedom Update" to the homepage, which lists daily the Top 5 articles (news and opinion) about the Iraq war. I hope you'll consider making this site your first stop every morning, as we make it our mission to keep you informed.

2) If you are a veteran of Iraq or Afghanistan, and would like to get more involved, there will be a number of opportunities to do so in the next few weeks. If we can count you in NOW as a regular participant, send an email to veteran@vetsforfreedom.org; and if you're not an Iraq or Afghanistan war vet, but would still like to volunteer, send an email to volunteer@vetsforfreedom.org.

3) Spread the word! Tell your friends and family about Vets for Freedom and tell them to sign up at www.vetsforfreedom.org/volunteer.

Finally, as of Monday, July 9th, I will be working full-time as the Vets for Freedom Executive Director. If you have any suggestions, do not hesitate to contact me directly. My email is pete@vetsforfreedom.org.

God bless you -- and this great county.

Regards, Pete Hegseth
Executive Director, Vets for Freedom

Iraq War Veteran Call Tips
When you call the senators, a few important things to remember:

Always be courteous. The person answering the phone is likely a young staffer.
If you are calling a Senator who represents your home state, say "I am from [City, State] and am a member of Vets for Freedom. I recently returned from Iraq [or insert relevant experience] and I respectfully request to speak with Senator [name]."

When they ask to take a message, say "I'm calling to ask Senator [name] not to support a deadline for withdrawal from Iraq. Because [cite three reasons above]... Please pass along this message to the Senator."

If you are calling a Senator who is not from your state, say "I am a veteran of the Iraq War [or insert relevant experience] who served with [insert unit] in [insert location] from [insert dates]. I am a member of Vets for Freedom and I'm calling to ask Senator [name] not to support a deadline for withdrawal from Iraq. Because [cite three reasons above]... Please pass along this message to the Senator."

In the future, we will be asking Vets for Freedom veterans to request personal meeting with Senators and Representative both in their home districts and on Capitol Hill, so make sure you get the relevant contact information from the person you're speaking with so you can follow up.

Vets for Freedom
PO Box 314
Woodstock, VA 22664