November 23, 2004
America Supports You
Here is a worthy cause for you to support in a time of great stress on our military and their families. Read the story.
The Defense Department has launched a new program to showcase America's support for the men and women of the armed forces and the myriad ways the country is expressing that support."America Supports You" is designed to gather information about the many activities and programs Americans have launched to show support for the troops — and most importantly, to ensure they and their families know about it, Charles Abell, principal deputy undersecretary of defense for personnel and readiness, told Pentagon reporters today.
Abell said communicating America's support for servicemembers and their families is a big morale booster for "those who are fighting to defend our freedom" and communicates America's "recognition and appreciation of the courage and commitment of those who serve."
Since the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center and Pentagon, Americans have come together as never before, united in their resolve against their terrorist enemies, Abell said. "And in the three years since Sept. 11, 2001, throughout our operations in Afghanistan and Iraq and elsewhere around the world, the American people have stood solidly behind our military personnel, both men and women, and their families," he said.
That support spans every segment of society — from individuals and families to schools to local communities to major, multinational corporations, Abell said, "all doing their part to show their appreciation for the dedication and sacrifice of America's fighting forces."
But despite the outpouring of support, said Allison Barber, deputy assistant secretary of defense for public affairs, servicemembers aren't always aware of it. "We've heard troops in the field asking if Americans are still supporting them," she said, "and we were determined to be able to answer that question in a meaningful way."
The America Supports You program will ensure servicemembers know about their many acts of gratitude — including activities conducted at the local level, said Barber, who will run the program.
The program encourages people to visit a Web site and share details about their project or activity. By doing so, they can sign up to receive a military-style dog tag with the "America Supports You" logo that provides a tangible symbol of their support.
Then visit the website. Show your support.
