Vets4Energy Fly-in to Washington DC (July, 2013)

August 5, 2013

Thirty U.S. veterans from around the country descended upon our Nation's Capital on July 9-12 as part of a Vets4Energy fly-in. These American heroes met with their U.S. Senators and Members of Congress, delivering the message that "Energy Security = National Security."
 
In addition to a half-day of energy issue briefings, these veterans traversed the hallways and offices of their senators and congressmen, discussing the connection between energy and national security. These meetings were a vital part of Vets4Energy's efforts to make elected officials in Washington hear firsthand about the issues important to America, in particular from a veteran's perspective.

As Admiral Don Loren told assembled veterans:

“Who else has earned the right to walk into the office of the 535 elected members of congress…and have a logical discussion about energy policies… that advance our national security.”

Each veteran went into these meetings armed with the latest intel on a variety of topics, including the Keystone XL Pipeline, increasing domestic access to oil and natural gas, and the use of hydraulic fracturing to extract those resources, among other key issues.
 
All Vet4Energy members were given a warm reception on the Hill, as well as by White House Federal Environmental Executive, Jonathan Powers and Assistant Secretary of Defense for Operational Energy Plans and Programs, Sharon Burke. 
 
This is the second year Vets4Energy has flown veterans to Washington DC.  Now they are back home, most continuing to advocate for the need for sound energy policies in their respective states.  Watch for Vets4Energy activity at local VSO’s (Veterans Service Organizations) in the news and at other events in the coming months.
 
Related:

* West VA: Vets4Energy emphasizes connection between energy, national security
* Illinois:  VETS4ENERGY TO MEET WITH U.S. SENATORS TO DISCUSS ENERGY POLICY
* Missouri:  “Vets4Energy” to Meet with Senators to Discuss Energy Policies