Greetings, A week ago I was in Ukraine where Spirit of America is helping US troops save lives and end a Russian-backed war. Earlier this year I was in Iraq with our troops providing assistance to help stop the savagery of ISIS. Many of my friends and family ask why I do it. The bottom line is I feel a real sense of duty. I care deeply about the world we hand over to the next generation. It’s personal. I have two boys. I know the freedoms and ideals that America stands for are the best hope for the peace, opportunity and well-being I wish for my sons. I also know America’s troops are on the front lines of defending our security and our freedoms. They allow the rest of us to live in comfort. We depend on their success. No strategy can work if those serving on the front lines fail. I have seen the unique impact Spirit of America has on our troops. With our all-veteran field team working by their side, we have helped them be a force for good. Our support has saved lives and helped our troops win in the most difficult situations imaginable. Knowing all this, I couldn’t forgive myself if I didn’t give my all to Spirit of America. What would I say to my sons? “Well boys, I had the opportunity to make a real difference. It was the right thing to do … but it was hard, so I took an easier path and did this other thing.” No way. I understand that we stand on the shoulders of those who came before us. They didn’t give up when things got tough. The lives we enjoy today are possible because of their sacrifices. I want my children to be able to say the same about us. That’s why I do it. Right now, we have 21 projects to help our troops prevail against the Islamic State, al Qaeda, Boko Haram and Russia. Email me for details. To meet these critical needs, our goal is to raise $481,000 by December 31st. With donations so far this month, we only have $127,500 to go. These funds will have an extraordinary impact because they build on the initiative and abilities of the brave men and women who serve our nation abroad. We deeply appreciate your support and generosity. Please join with us again. Support the safety and success of our troops by making a year-end gift to Spirit of America. Thank you. Jim Hake and the Spirit of America team Following is from Ukraine with US troops who, to help end a Russian-backed war, are training Ukrainian soldiers. Following is in Iraq with Peshmerga who are stopping the savagery of ISIS, the so-called “Islamic State.”