Some military veterans from Missouri say America’s mission in Iraq and Afghanistan isn’t over, just because Osama Bin Laden is now dead.
Major John Gillum of Jefferson City served in Iraq and Afghanistan with both the Army Reserve and the Missouri National Guard.
“This is part of the process of destroying Al-Qaeda…this is not the end of it," Gillum said. "We have to continue to fight and make sure that we destroy this group, because that is what their intent is to do with our country.”
Herbert Kuebler, also of Jefferson City, served as a combat medic during World War Two. He suggests that Bin Laden’s death could trigger more enemy resistance, and that now’s not the time to bring U.S. troops home.
“I think there’s gonna be trouble, there’s bound to be, so they’re probably better off if they stay there for awhile (and) see what happens,” Kuebler said.
Kuebler and Gillum were among five Missouri veterans who were honored with Silver Star banners and certificates at a ceremony today at the State Capitol.
Osama Bin Laden was killed Sunday at his compound in Pakistan by a team of U.S. Navy Seals.
