WASHINGTON – April 11 marks the 34th anniversary of the formal end to the Persian Gulf War, and the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) continues to honor and pay tribute to the nearly 700,000 military men and women who served in Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm.
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 ceasefire official and formally ending the Persian Gulf War. The definitive victory elevated the United States as the preeminent global superpower and the number one partner of choice for its allies around the world.
Airmen from the 169th Maintenance Group gather for a photo at Prince Sultan Air Base, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, (unknown exact day/month), 1991. The "Swamp Fox" airmen from the South Carolina Air National Guard are deployed to PSAB in support of Operation DESERT STORM. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Master Sgt. Stan Sparks, 169th Fighter Wing)American soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen served in the Gulf War, ensuring one of the swiftest, most decisive victories in U.S. history. However, the price paid for this victory is often overlooked. We must never forget the cost of war and the 374 dead, 467 wounded, and the two servicemen whose remains have yet to come home.
On behalf of a grateful nation, the VFW remembers this momentous event for our country and for liberty. We continue to recognize the courage of these brave men and women who fought to liberate a nation more than 7,000 miles away from American shores, and whose service left an indelible mark on history.
We honor all Gulf War veterans – men and women who dedicated themselves to accomplishing their mission and protecting freedom halfway around the world. We stay committed to the fight for their health care and benefits on Capitol Hill and say “thank you” for their service and sacrifice more than 34 years ago.