WE SALUTE YOU

Dear Night Stalkers, Families, and Friends,

Like many of you, it has been painful for me to watch the events unfolding in Afghanistan. I encourage you to keep your head up and take pride in your service.

Stand tall knowing that Night Stalkers did their duty with honor. I am proud of the men and women with whom I had the privilege to serve during a necessary and noble endeavor in that foreign land. You accomplished the mission: there has been no attack on our homeland in 20 years and you helped give a fledgling nation the time and space (two decades!) for its people to get their feet beneath them.

This was not a military defeat; it was a decision to withdraw. The U.S. tired of the effort and decided to come home. We had the watch, but the Taliban had the time. And, as I learned while leading an advisory effort in Iraq, we can't want it more than "they" do and expect it to succeed.

As we pray for those still in harm's way, know that you answered the call to make the Nation and World a better place. Please lean on me, each other, or medical professionals, as you wrestle and struggle with this final chapter in our country's longest war. I ask you to reach out, check on, and embrace your battle buddies, families, and our beloved Gold Star Families in this tumultuous time.

On behalf of the Board of Directors of the Night Stalker Foundation, I salute you and your Families and thank you for your service and sacrifice. The Foundation is here to support you.

Night Stalkers Don't Quit!

With the greatest admiration and respect,

Kevin W. Mangum
Lieutenant General, U.S Army (retired)
Chairman, Night Stalker Foundation/10th Colonel of the Regiment