JD Vance, the U.S. Vice President, faced backlash from British veterans for dismissing the UK’s military contributions in Iraq and Afghanistan, where 636 British soldiers died. Veterans like Johnny Mercer and Andy McNab criticized his remarks, stressing the need for respect and understanding of military sacrifices.
British veterans have criticized JD Vance for his derogatory remarks about the UK’s sacrifices in Iraq and Afghanistan, where 636 British soldiers lost their lives. Vance, currently the U.S. Vice President, dismissed the UK’s military contributions, labeling it as “some random country that hasn’t fought a war in 30 or 40 years” while rejecting British proposals for action in Ukraine.
Former Veterans Minister Johnny Mercer, a veteran himself, responded by urging Vance to show respect, saying, “Vance needs to wind his neck in”. Andy McNab, an SAS veteran, invited Vance to visit war memorials to understand the sacrifices made by British soldiers.
General Sir Patrick Sanders, a former Army chief, expressed disagreement with Vance’s comments, warning that public disputes could complicate the current political landscape. Vance, who served four years in the U.S. Marine Corps primarily in public affairs, further claimed that Ukraine’s security relied on economic ties with the U.S.
Former British soldier Shaun Pinner, who fought in Ukraine, labeled Vance a “political Neanderthal” for his uninformed statements on military matters. He emphasized the unique and challenging nature of modern warfare in Ukraine, contrasting it with American experiences in previous conflicts.
Ex-Royal Marine Ben McBean, who sustained severe injuries in Afghanistan, rebuked Vance’s lack of firsthand combat experience, urging him to refrain from commenting on war. He highlighted that Vance’s role in the Marines focused on public relations rather than direct combat.
Admiral Lord West condemned Vance’s comments as “utterly disgraceful,” citing the heavy toll of British lives lost in the War on Terror, and questioned Vance’s authority to make such statements given his background in public affairs rather than combat.
General the Lord Richard Dannatt expressed disbelief regarding Vance’s perspective, calling into question his understanding of military realities. Britain has incurred significant losses in Iraq and Afghanistan, with operational engagements beginning post-9/11 as part of the wider War on Terror.
In Afghanistan, the UK fought alongside the U.S. from 2001 until a full withdrawal in 2021, losing 457 troops. The Iraq War, initiated in 2003, saw 179 British soldiers perish as they participated in operations aimed at establishing security and stability in a tumultuous region overall.
The controversy surrounding JD Vance’s remarks underscores the sensitive nature of military sacrifices and international support. British veterans strongly opposed his dismissal of the UK’s military contributions, emphasizing the deep sacrifices made by British forces alongside their American counterparts. The responses from various military personnel highlight the importance of respect and acknowledgment in discussions about war and historical alliances.
Original Source: www.the-sun.com
