Let’s save the land for which we fought and died

War has an unpleasant effect on the human psyche and I, along with other combat veterans, know this all too well.

I served in World War II and saw combat in the Battle of the Bulge.

In my time of service I would often reflect back to the beauty of this great country as a means of attaining peace. These thoughts often
provided comfort during times of duress that all American servicemen and women experience when deployed.

This period of my life may be the driving force of my commitment today to ensure that the California desert’s heritage remains protected for future generations.

Failure to do so is not an option.

Senator Diane Feinstein introduced the California Desert Protection Act of 2010 in the hope of ensuring that my ambitions are secured.

This legislation will ensure that national parks such as Death Valley and Joshua Tree and the Mojave National Preserve will continue to prosper and remain unspoiled.

It will promote tourism through the creation of two new national monuments and seek continued protection of the migration routes for wildlife of the region.

It is important that we realize the greatness of this land that we can so easily take for granted.

The beauty of this region is unparalleled and the people of Southern California are not the only ones that realize this. Americans from all over this great country come here to experience the spiritual serenity of this land each year.

With this in mind it is clear that tourism is a vital piece of our regional economy.

Senator Feinstein understands this and the proposed legislation will only strengthen this.

As a veteran in the twilight of my life I am not only proud of my service but also proud that I live in a democracy where my voice can be heard. It is what I fought for in World War II.

However, my voice alone cannot make a difference.

I am calling today on my fellow veterans to join me in ensuring that the spectacular beauty of the California desert remains protected.

I strongly commend and support the vision and leadership that Senator Feinstein has brought with this historic legislation.

Now, let us all join her and ensure that this vision becomes a reality.  Please come to www.landswelove.org and join my fight.