FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE DATE: March 24, 2008 CONTACT: Kara Horowitz, IAVA
, 212-982-9699
Veterans Mourn the Loss of 4,000 U.S. Troops in Iraq Death Toll Is a Stark Reminder of the Human Cost of War
NEW YORK - On Sunday the death toll of U.S. servicemembers in Iraq reached 4,000. In response, Iraq
and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA), the nation's first and
largest non-partisan organization for veterans of the wars in Iraq and
Afghanistan, issued the following statement:
"The 4000th
KIA in Iraq is newsworthy, but the truth is that every death should be
a news item," said Paul Rieckhoff, Executive Director of Iraq and
Afghanistan Veterans of America. "The 4000th death should
not be exploited in the polarized arguments about the war. Honoring the
fallen is neither a pro nor an anti war statement. It's about
respecting the sacrifice of thousands of America's sons and
daughters."
Last week, IAVA called on the media
to report more thoroughly on the war in Iraq. According to the Pew
Research Center, last month's media coverage of the war was at its
lowest point in five years and less than a third of the public knew how
many troops had died in Iraq.
"Over 80% of
Americans are aware that Oprah Winfrey endorsed Senator Obama, yet only
28% know how many troops have died in Iraq. These numbers are a slap in
the face to everyone who has served in the current conflicts," said
Rieckhoff. "While thousands of military families across the country are
coping with the heartbreaking loss of a loved one, most Americans don't
even know the death toll."
"Our thoughts and
prayers are with all of the families who have sacrificed for the
war. But the fallen are much more than a statistic. More than half of
those killed were under the age of 25 and many have left young families
behind. Over 2,200 children have lost a parent in the conflicts in Iraq
and Afghanistan."
Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans
of America (IAVA) is the nation's first and largest group for veterans
of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. A non-profit and nonpartisan
organization, IAVA represents more than 80,000 veteran members and
civilian supporters in all 50 states. To arrange an interview with Paul
Rieckhoff or any other IAVA member veterans, please contact Kara
Horowitz at (212)-982-9699, or email
.
