National Commander of The American Legion, James W. “Bill” Oxford recently shared these words:

“The Taliban are retaking control of Afghanistan at an alarming rate. It’s something generations of veterans have seen. A similar takeover occurred in Iraq. And we all know what happened in Vietnam.

As a Vietnam veteran. I deeply empathize with today’s veterans who are witnessing this tragic turn of events. But let me be 100% clear: the sacrifice, commitment and work by all of our men and women in uniform these past 20 years was worth it.

They kept our nation safe when many feared another attack. They brought evil-doers to justice. They delivered hope to war-torn nations. Their courage, victories and selfless acts of service will not be washed away by history.

To all the men and women who served and made the world a better, safer and brighter place since the dark day of 9/11, I salute you.

As veterans, we have a unique perspective on what all of this means. The action we are seeing today is troubling on an international scale. But it is also troubling to veterans, especially those who served with honor since 9/11. They may be left questioning what all of this means. They may have trouble processing this turn of events as related to their service. They may experience feelings of depression.

Whether you are a Vietnam veteran, or one from the war on terror or another era, I thank you for your service. No matter when you served, your service mattered. And it’s what will allow freedom and democracy to continue.”

We at American Legion Hughes-Pittinger Post 26 want to reinforce the statement from Commander Oxford and we salute each of you. Your sacrifices were not in vain and each of you are valued by your fellow brothers and sisters. If you are struggling with this and need to talk or need help with anything we are here.

We continue to have our Battling 22 meetings every other Monday at 6 p.m. The next meetings are Monday, Aug. 23, Sept. 13, Sept. 27, Oct. 11 and Oct. 25. We don’t want to see any veteran or family member of veterans left behind feeling as though no one hears their cries of help. Please contact us at 307-754-3411 or americanlegionposg26@gmail.com.

These events of the past few weeks do not define you or the sacrifices you made. Remember, you kept the terrorists at bay for 20 years. You served with bravery and honor. You were there for those serving beside you. And what you did does matter.

(This piece was submitted by American Legion Hughes-Pittinger Post 26 Commander Russell Stafford, American Legion Auxiliary President Patty Paulsen and Sons of the American Legion Commander Vaughn Paulsen.)