On December 7th, 1941 the United States was attacked by the Empire of Japan.  That unprovoked attack led the United States into the most globally encompassing conflict humanity has ever experienced, World War II.  The sacrifices our soldiers made, on and off the battlefield allowed our nation to remain free, and planted the seeds of freedom in cultures all over the world.

On December 7th, 2009 a 90-year-old decorated veteran of World War II, Korea, and Vietnam is under attack from a different front.  This time retired Army Col. Van Barfoot is not fighting against the Nazis or the Communists, but rather against an overzealous homeowners association seeking to remove a flag poll from his front yard.
 
Supporting our troops and veterans with our praises, appreciation, and promises should be a priority for every American.  I proudly stand with retired Army Col. Barfoot in his fight to display the flag he fought to defend in the manner he feels is appropriate, and I send my dearest appreciation to everyone who is currently serving or has ever served our country honorably in uniform.
 
In memory of the anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor, I dedicate the third installment of our “I Believe” series to our troops and veterans.
 
I BELIEVE in supporting our Veterans
 
I believe that military service is one of the most noble and selfless acts of service one can preform for our country.
 
I believe we owe our veterans the greatest debt of gratitude for protecting the freedoms we enjoy.
 
I believe in fulfilling all of our commitments to our veterans and their families, especially the financial ones.
 
I believe in listening to the commanders on the ground when determining military strategy and operational support.
 
I believe it’s wrong to play politics with our troops, and believe in decisive and informed decision making regarding deployment.
 
I believe in a strong military and will support keeping our nation’s military well funded to ensure it has the ability to get the job done when we need it.
 
I believe in our veterans and our current men and women in uniform, and that is part of the reason why I am running for United States Congress.

What do you believe? What are your concerns? E-mail me at  [email protected] with the issues you would like me to address in our “I Believe” series.

Rep. Jeff Duncan is Chairman of the South Carolina House Agriculture, Natural Resources, and Environmental Affairs Committee. He is a life-time member of the NRA, and holds an A+ rating from the South Carolina Club for Growth. He is currently running for United States Congress in South Carolina’s Third Congressional District. www.JeffDuncan.com