Download PDF of this full issue: v41n2.pdf (26.6 MB)

Ten Years After... And Counting

By Joe Miller

This issue of The Veteran comes out as we mark the tenth anniversary of the start of US military intervention in Afghanistan. Demonstrations marking that date took place across the nation in opposition to these continuing military operations, recognizing that ten years has only brought death to nearly two thousand US troops, hundreds of coalition forces, and some tens of thousands of Afghani civilians. VVAW members have joined with IVAW and others in calling for an end to these efforts and an immediate removal of all US and coalition forces. The statement below, first promulgated in 2001, in general, still reflects VVAW's basic position on this war and the continuing occupation. Our members, singly and in groups, around the country have joined forces with those who want to bring our brothers and sisters home. The quicker we bring them home, the more of them we'll be able to bring home safely.

The Veteran, 2001
(Volume 31, Number 1)

From VVAW's National Steering Committee 10/27/01

On October 7, military action began against the Taliban regime in Afghanistan. In the VVAW statement on the September 11 terrorist attacks, we argued against the use of "massive military power" as a response. While those who committed and supported the awful acts of terrorism in New York and Washington, DC, must be brought to justice, VVAW does not accept that US military intervention in Afghanistan will be the answer.

We must carve out space for dissent in this country, dissent that is now under threat with the passage of a sweeping anti-terrorism bill by the US Congress. It is time for all of us to stand up for justice and reason now, to really be "winter soldiers" in these times when our views are being marginalized and may be unpopular.

We call upon people to continue participation in demonstrations and rallies across the country. These are necessary to avoid the feeling of isolation in this dangerous time. These are important methods of coming together as citizens.

We also suggest the wider use of teach-ins and town meetings to connect with broader audiences, to help each other to learn about the reasons behind the violence of September 11 and to move toward the recognition of the US as one country in an international community, a country that must learn to base its domestic and foreign policies on true economic and social justice.

Those who receive this paper should contact the individuals listed on page two to find out what is going on in your community and how you might help in this necessary effort. VVAW is assisting in efforts to forge a national progressive coalition in response to 9-11 and its aftermath.

Joe Miller is a VVAW National Coordinator who lives in Urbana, Illinois.