Each year, we honor our fallen warriors on the last Monday of May. But this Memorial Day will be different for most Americans. This year marks our seventh year of fighting in Afghanistan (OEF) and fifth year in Iraq (OIF). To date, this war on terror has claimed the lives of 4,500 and seen 35,000 return home wounded. While we lament the great sacrifices our service members have made, we celebrate their courage to stand up against tyranny, terrorism and those who denounce the philosophy of freedom.

Nearly half of America is 36 years old or younger and therefore did not experience our last major conflict resulting in large casualties. The Vietnam War, which ended 33 years ago, claimed ten times the number of American lives. Like Iraq, Vietnam was a politically divisive conflict that polarized the politics of our nation. Unlike in Vietnam, Americans have learned to separate the war policy from those executing it.

Our troops deserve this support. Thank God we, as a nation, have learned from our mistakes and honor our troops and veterans the way we failed to do so after Vietnam.

Former 28-year old Army captain Dawn Halfaker graces our cover this issue. Dawn was severely injured in Iraq four years ago, but has used her military “can-do” attitude to create and operate her own business.  Dawn could have given up. She chose not to.  She played the hand she was dealt and beat the house. The business she founded just a few years ago is flourishing; a testament to her and to the values instilled from military service. I remind all of you that we’re alumni of the best business training in the world: the U.S. military.

This Memorial Day, pause to remember our fallen brothers and sisters. Pause to thank Dawn Halfaker and our other fellow veterans. And pause to remember our troops who fight for all of us, regardless of politics. While freedom works best when it encourages debate, it must always be secured by those who are willing to stand guard to make that debate possible.

Thanks for serving,

Chris Hale

NaVOBA President • U.S. Navy, 9 yrs.

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