Contact: Ramona Joyce, 202-263-2982, 202-445-1161 cell; Joe March, 317-630-1253, 317-748-1926 cell; both with The American Legion

WASHINGTON, Janu. 12 /Standard Newswire/ -- The National Commander of The American Legion Paul A. Morin voiced his organization's strong support for President George W. Bush's new initiatives in Iraq which include deploying 21,500 more U.S. troops there and implementing a well-defined mission.

"The six fundamental elements of this new strategy have a good chance of providing the security environment and framework in Iraq - particularly in Baghdad and Anbar Province - to make both military and political progress," Morin said.

Echoing the President's praise for the selfless and dedicated men and women who are defending us, Morin said that the thoughts and prayers of The American Legion's 2.6 million members are with them.

"We will do everything in our power to make sure the troops have what they need to get the job done once and for all including funding this troop surge so these brave men and women can do their jobs and return home safely," Morin added.

Morin said the mission will be both dangerous and challenging. He firmly added that a greater responsibility should and will be placed on the Iraqi government and that the United States' commitment was not open ended. The American Legion's full support for the Global War on Terrorism was unanimously adopted at the organization's last two national conventions. It also urges the sustained and united support of the American people.

The National Commander said that the American Legion will continue to do what it does best – unequivocally support our men and women in uniform as well as their families, and to ensure that their medical needs are met when they return from combat.

Morin said failure in Iraq is not an option and he will continue to work for the united support for our troops from the American people.

"We will not separate the war from the warrior," Morin said. "Debating the new strategy is the American Way but let this be a warning that precipitous actions by the Congress could lower troop morale and hinder the mission."

Just as important Morin said, it could send the absolutely wrong message to our enemies in Iraq and embolden terrorists worldwide.