I’ve had some very sharp opinions against the Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA). I don’t take back anything I’ve said in the past with regard to my previous dealings with the organization. Paul Reickhoff and I spoke a few months ago through email regarding my last post blasting an article calling the group “bi-partisan”. After that conversation, I promised Paul I would take a step back and objectively reevaluate his organization and then give a fresh, honest report to my readers.

After creating a Google news alert that let me know anytime IAVA was mentioned in the media or blogs, I’ve had plenty of time to give them a fair retrial. Through this research and objective review, I’ve changed my position on the group. Paul Reickhoff made mistakes early in his attempts to create an organization that is representative of veterans from Iraq and Afghanistan but he’s made great strides to overcome his infancy and has morphed IAVA in a truly bi-partisan organization.

IAVA is working hard to ensure that troops are taken care of and represents us in the halls of Congress in supporting key issues as they relate to health care, pay, and legislation. Recently, the group was honored as a role model by Generation Engage, a bi-partisan civic organization for youths. IAVA has worked closely alongside the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, and Disabled American Veterans advising Congress, the Pentagon and the VA on the needs of war veterans.

Unlike my liberal antagonists on this site, I have no problem admitting my mistakes. When I’ve been proven wrong, I’ll admit it. And this is one of those times. As of right now, I hereby put my support behind the Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America.