VFW Outraged Over American Flag and Monument Desecrations in Washington, DC

LOUISVILLE, Ky., - Through the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) resolutions process yesterday, we reaffirmed our commitment to support the state of Israel with the passage of Resolution No. 414. I want to bring to your attention to why this is so important.

You may have seen anti-war protesters commit some despicable acts last week in Washington, D.C. During their protest, these Hamas sympathizers spray-painted terrorist propaganda on US monuments, took down and burned the American flag, while replacing it with the flag of another country being held hostage by terrorists.

Like many of you, I was absolutely disgusted by the vile and obnoxious protests.

We fiercely condemn the desecration of our flag and monuments just steps from the U.S. Capitol. Such actions undermine the values of respect, and unity that are fundamental to our democracy, the very fabric of who we are as an American people. The destruction of symbols that represent the collective identity of our nation only serves to deepen divisions and sow discord. It is crucial for all Americans to express their grievances through peaceful and constructive means, rather than through acts of vandalism and disrespect.

I want to thank VFW Life member and U.S. Congressman Derrick Van Orden, from the great state of Wisconsin, and his fellow veterans in Congress who restored the stars and stripes to its rightful place in three locations just outside of Union Station near the Capitol after it was torn down and burned in protest.

It is time for all Americans to reaffirm our commitment to our country. As VFW members, it is our duty to promote Americanism and to foster true patriotism. These principles - respect for our democratic institutions and unity in the face of adversity - are the foundation of our nation's strength and resilience. By embracing these values, we honor the sacrifices of those who came before us.

The VFW will always stand with our country, and we will defend her against any enemy, foreign or domestic.