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I offer my profound gratitude, respect, and support for all the families with loved ones who served or are serving in the armed forces. The commitment, the courage, the willingness to sacrifice it takes to be a soldier are far too often unrecognized and far too often taken for granted.
None of us can or should pretend to understand fully what it's like to serve or sacrifice; but in addition to our gratitude, we can offer our hope and prayers and, most importantly, our recognition that our armed forces and their friends and families sometimes suffer alone and in silence.
I believe that it is from learning humility in the face of that silent suffering that we can come together as a state and a nation.
I opposed the Iraq war from the first day President Bush and his team began making the argument for it. I believed then, and I am more persuaded now, that the President chose war in advance of any sound evidence or policy, and his case for it was flawed and in many ways dishonest.
I believe President Bush went to war without clear objectives, without an understanding of the situation in and culture of Iraq, and with inadequate planning and resources to protect our troops.
I recognize that some Vermonters, and some who have served and are now serving, may not agree with my beliefs about the war. Whether or not we agree on specific policies, I will always honor their sacrifice and dedication, just as I recognize that they serve to protect my freedom, whether they agree with me or not.
As a candidate for governor I am speaking out on this issue because it affects our lives, our families, our state budget, our communities and businesses.
As Governor, I will do everything within my power to:
- Stand up for our soldiers, veterans, and our military families, encouraging the whole state to honor and support their sacrifice in battle and the ongoing sacrifices war imposes on them and their loved ones years after it is over.
- Work with Vermont’s Congressional delegation and other Governors to make sure that Veterans' benefits and services are fully funded, adequate, and of the highest quality.
- Encourage a full and thoughtful debate about our policy in Iraq and our options for a swift return of our troops.
- Work with Vermont's Congressional delegation and other Governors to advocate for a prompt and honorable return of our troops from Iraq.
I love this state and its people. Though we are a small state, we can have a loud voice. That is why I cannot remain silent in the face of those who would silence us.
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