Vets for Freedom Response to Tom Harkin

Military Experience a Value not a Flaw

(Des Moines IA) - Vets for Freedom is disheartened by the comments made last Friday by Senator Tom Harkin (D-IA) stating that a view shaped by "always having been in the military" is "pretty dangerous". These comments are insulting to generations of families who have answered the call of duty to serve their nation in the United States Armed Forces.

"As an Iowa veteran who served on the front lines of the War on Terror, I was offended to hear my Senator demean the distinguished service of generations of American patriots." said Iowa State Captain of Vets for Freedom and Iraq war veteran, Ben Hayden. "To make these comments the day before Armed Forces Day is even more disturbing. Some of our greatest leaders have been 'steeped' in military tradition - from our first President, General George Washington, to John F. Kennedy and General Dwight D. Eisenhower. Senator Harkin's comments are nothing more than a political cheap shot aimed at a true war hero. All Americans should welcome this type of generational commitment to service, as it provides the very foundation of our great nation."

May 20, 2008 Contact: Judy Mayka (202) 338-4070