A letter from General Richard D. Clarke
Every day shows how complex and dangerous our world has become. From Ukraine to Taiwan, threats to freedom and democracy are growing. Terrorism is on the rise in the Middle East. Innocent people are suffering.
Spirit of America unites citizens like you with our troops and diplomats to save lives, defend freedom, and help people build free and better lives.
In my 38-year Army career, I had the good fortune of playing a role in many of the most sensitive and impactful missions conducted to secure the United States and our allies. I retired in 2022 after nearly four years as head of US Special Operations Command, commanding over 75,000 of our nation’s most elite forces: Navy SEALS, Army Green Berets, and Marine Special Operators. Having personally served in some of the world’s toughest places and getting to witness firsthand our seasoned operators in over 80 countries, I can tell you firsthand: Spirit of America is needed now more than ever.
“I’ve witnessed Spirit of America working with our troops and diplomats to protect freedom and democracy in Ukraine and Taiwan, and promote opportunity in the Middle East. Spirit of America goes wherever America needs them.”
General Richard D. Clarke
One example, that I personally witnessed, was the tremendous Spirit of America work in West Africa. The Spirit of America team was helping US Special Operations Forces prevent war by reducing the influence of extremism. They worked with our troops to meet the needs of the most important tribes. These tribes were concerned about their livestock — the source of their livelihood, sustenance, and well-being — and their youth. Spirit of America implemented a livestock vaccination campaign and created a scholarship program for young people to be trained as veterinarians. This improved livestock health and provided jobs and hope for tribal youth.
Spirit of America’s impact was immediate. Their support of our mission played a crucial role in preventing war for 10 years. That’s an incredible record of success in Africa, where terrorist organizations are gaining ground and Russia and China are exploiting unrest.
Since then, I’ve witnessed Spirit of America working with our troops and diplomats to protect freedom and democracy in Ukraine and Taiwan, and promote opportunity in the Middle East. Spirit of America goes wherever America needs them.
Spirit of America proves you and your support can make an extraordinary difference. Your support is needed now more than ever. Please consider making a year-end gift today.
Sincerely,
Richard D. Clarke
US Army, Retired
