WASHINGTON — Today marks the formal end to the Persian Gulf War and the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) continues to celebrate the veterans of the conflict. The courage of these brave men and women who fought to liberate a nation more than 7,000 miles away from American shores left an indelible mark on history.
On April 11, 1991, less than 90 days after the U.S.-led offensive against Iraq known as Operation Desert Storm began, the United Nations Security Council declared the conditions of Resolution 687 in effect, making the cease fire official and formally ending the Persian Gulf War. The definitive victory elevated the United States as the preeminent global super power and the number one partner of choice for its allies around the world.
More than 700,000 American soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen served in Operation Desert Shield and Desert Storm. Of that number, 467 were reported wounded and 374 paid the ultimate sacrifice, two whose remains have yet to come home. Even now, we may never know the total cost of the conflict as Gulf War illness and other effects of toxic-exposure continue to take the lives of those who served there.
The VFW and its Auxiliary commemorate this historic day in American history and honor all Gulf War veterans. We stay committed to the fight for their healthcare and benefits on Capitol Hill, and say “thank you” for their service and sacrifice more than 31 years ago.