COMMANDER’S MESSAGE
Dear American Legion Family members and friends,
It was two years ago when we were collectively dismayed at how swiftly the Taliban reasserted control
over Afghanistan. Once the withdrawal of American troops gained momentum, we only knew it was a
matter of time.
Still the speed of the Taliban takeover unleashed anger, frustration and concern for Afghanistan
interpreters and other allies who risked their lives to help U.S. troops during the 20-year war.
Predictably, Taliban rule has plunged Afghanistan into a floundering economic state where human rights
are compromised, malnutrition is rampant and education is shoved aside.
And our allies’ lives remain in danger.
As veterans we understand what it means to say, “No one gets left behind.” For two decades, our troops
fought shoulder-to-shoulder with trusted Afghan allies who served as translators, protected troops from
harm and fought for freedom. And to this day, the brave Afghan women who undertook missions with
Green Berets and Navy Seals as Female Tactical Platoons have Taliban bounties on their heads.
We must continue our two-fold fight for them.
The United States must honor its promises and provide lasting protection for Afghans who have safely
resettled in America as well as those who were left behind. The American Legion is urging Congress to
pass the Afghan Adjustment Act, which would allow Afghans who fought alongside our servicemembers
the opportunity to apply for permanent legal residency after undergoing additional vetting.
Join this mission to support our Afghan allies by sending a message to Congress through our Grassroots
Action Center.
Thank you for what you do every day on behalf of our nation’s veterans, servicemembers, their families
and the communities in which they live.
National Commander
Vincent J. “Jim” Troiola
