Military veterans: Senate must pass clean-energy legislation

Here's something you don't see every day: Battle-hardened military veterans out advocating for an environmental cause.

Oh, I have little doubt that most soldiers and sailors -- like most Americans -- consider themselves friends of Mother Earth. And it's also true, as we wrote recently, that former generals and admirals count energy independence a national security issue.

But one doesn't necessarily associate: Military = Green. In fact, waging a war produces a heck of a lot of greenhouse gases.

So we noted with surprise this week that a group that calls itself votevets.org is launching a $400,000 blitz of radio ads urging key senators to get moving on legislation to safeguard the climate. Here is how the group describes itself:

The leading progressive, pro-military organization of veterans, dedicated to the destruction of terror networks around the world, with force when necessary. It primarily focuses on education and advocacy on issues of importance to the troops and veterans, and holding politicians accountable for their actions on these issues.

The radio spots feature actual vets of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars, giving a pitch in their home state. They will run in conjunction with a bus tour making its way Arkansas, Montana, North Dakota, Missouri, South Dakota, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio, West Virginia, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Pennsylvania, Florida, and Maine.

Here's the script:

Local Veteran: Growing up in (Home State), nothing prepares you for the things you see over there. I saw firsthand how money we spend on oil is finding its way to the same terrorists we're fighting against.

ANNOUNCER: He's right. That's why veterans are calling on members of Congress -- to pass clean energy legislation.

A clean energy bill will put America to work producing home-grown energy. Cut carbon pollution. Cut the flow of oil dollars that make their way? to those who would do America harm.

Local Veteran: American power has always depended on American heroes.

(Senators Names), we're counting on you to stand up to Big Oil and the special interests. Be a hero, and pass the clean American energy bill.

ANNOUNCER: Call your senators now, at 202-224-3121. Because clean American energy means more American power. A message from Operation Free, paid for by VoteVets Action Fund.