Iraq veterans speak out online

The Iraq War has become a stinging issue among anti-war activists around the world. The Associated Press reported recently that nearly 4,200 members of the U.S. military have died since the war began in March 2003. An estimated 1 million Iraqis have also died as a result of the conflict, according to survey work conducted by London-based Opinion Research Business. The war’s financial costs to the U.S. also continue to rise, now standing at more than $560 billion. October 11 marked the sixth anniversary of Congress’ authorizing the invasion of Iraq, and anti-war activists see this as an opportunity to galvanize voters during the upcoming U.S. presidential election.

Iraq Veterans against the War (IVAW) was founded in 2004 to serve a growing number of active U.S. duty service people and veterans who are against this war, but are under various pressures to not speak out. IVAW uses its Facebook group to explain their top ten reasons why they are against the war, as well as post videos and share information about their efforts.

“Soldiers and veterans that oppose these wars run huge risks and neglect, and deserve all my admiration,” said Chilean Facebook member Pablo Lobo, “It takes real courage and strength to stand against such a beast! -- Your cause is a huge player in the many other causes for peace! Keep on and I hope more people will wake up and listen to you!”