Dear American Legion Family members and friends,

The shenanigans we’re seeing play out on Capitol Hill are more than typical political bickering. They are endangering our national security, military readiness, and other core issues for veterans, servicemembers and their families.

In short: We’re less than two weeks away from a government shutdown as Congress is unable to pass spending legislation before a new fiscal year begins Oct. 1. Our elected representatives are looking at yet another stopgap measure, a continuing resolution (CR) which is akin to placing a bandage on a wounded body part that requires major surgery.

There are numerous reasons why passage of a CR would gravely impact America. Among them:

Military readiness and operations: A CR would be disruptive in several ways, compromising military response operations to worldwide threats, reducing readiness training and putting the brakes on maintenance fixes, while simultaneously empowering known enemies.

Delayed pay for troops: Active-duty personnel and reservists could experience delays in receiving hard-earned pay raises, negatively impacting morale and financial stability, especially in the current economic climate. Imagine being a young servicemember and having to talk with a spouse or partner about which bills to pay, just because Congress is mired in a political standoff.

Border security: Already stretched thin, border protection agencies could face staffing shortages and resource limitations, increasing their vulnerability to illegal activities and security threats.

Recruitment challenges: The armed forces are already faced with challenges when it comes to recruiting the best and the brightest. As the standoff takes its toll, potential recruits’ enlistment bonuses could be halted, risking that they forego military service due to financial uncertainty. Additionally, current servicemembers could choose to not re-enlist, creating talent shortages in areas critical to national security.

Those are among the scenarios we will be facing with a CR, instead of a fully funded fiscal year. But there is still time for Congress to do the right thing.

Our members of Congress must push aside their political posturing, focus on completing the mandated task at hand and doing what is right for America, its military members and their families. I am calling on Congress to pass an actual spending bill on time to ensure our military is properly funded throughout this fiscal year.

National Commander

James LaCoursiere Jr.