Dunford: 'I see a new generation of heroes'

General Joseph F. Dunford, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, addressed The American Legion’s National Convention on Tuesday, praising the leadership and sacrifice of the newest generation of veterans and servicemembers.

Dunford acknowledged the Spirit of Service award winners, then talked about the current war with Islamic State. “We all have challenges we focus on in our country. But I am actually not at all concerned about the future of our country, if the future of our country is represented by who is here today.”

Today, Dunford said, more than 275,000 servicemen and women are deployed in over 177 different countries. He said the priority is fighting the Islamic State in Iraq, Syria, Afghanistan and Libya, while assisting allies in parts of Africa and Asia.

“As everyone knows, it’s a global fight,” the general said. “I want to make clear our No. 1 priority — and the reason we are in all those places — is to prevent an attack here in the homeland. Over the past year, we have had some significant successes. We have taken ISIL leaders off the battlefield. We have reduced their resources and limited the territory they hold. We have also built up local forces so that the gains we made are enduring.

“Most importantly we’ve undermined their aura of invincibility and credibility. They are being exposed for the losers that they are. I can tell you that in the past year we have gained the momentum.”

Dunford also recognized troops who are monitoring Russian aggression, fighting cyber attackers, and National Guard troops helping flood victims in Louisiana.

He also shared a story of sacrifice.

Two weeks ago, Dunford honored Marine Lt. Brian McPhillips and Army Pfc. Matthew Bean during a ceremony in their hometown of Pembroke, Mass. Bean was shot and killed on May 19, 2007 in Lutifiyah, Iraq. McPhillips died during a firefight in central Iraq on April 4, 2003.

“Like all the Legionnaires here, Matthew and Brian chose to serve their country because they thought it was the right thing to do,” Dunford said. “Joining after 9/11, they knew that in all likelihood that their service would put them in harm’s way.”

Dunford praised the Legion for its role in the memorial honoring McPhillips and Bean.

“The American Legion was there with a strong and vital presence,” he said. “Pembroke Post 143 does what so many posts and cities do in cities and towns across the country. They support local veterans and their families. They sponsor community programs. And they honor the memory of the fallen, like Brian and Matthew.”

Dunford closed with praise for the youngest generation of servicemembers and veterans.

“It stretches from (World War II veteran and Medal of Honor recipient) Woody Williams to the newest member of The American Legion,” Dunford said. “I see older veterans mentoring the young on the values and the qualities that make our nation great. I see the young caring for the old. And I see a new generation of heroes like Brian and Matthew.”