United States, Qatar celebrate veterans, reinforce strong military ties on this Veterans Day

WASHINGTON, Nov. 10, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Saturday, November 11 is Veterans Day in the United States, a day honoring the men and women who have served in the American Armed Forces. In commemoration of this event, the State of Qatar recognizes the thousands of American servicemen and women who have been stationed (or are currently stationed) in Qatar for their contribution toward peace and stability in the region.

Qatar is continually thankful for the strong military relationship between itself and the United States. This partnership has been further strengthened with the recent opening of the new Qatar Defense Attaché Office in Washington, DC, headed by Brigadier General Yousef al-Kuwari. Reflecting on the upcoming holiday, General al-Kuwari offered the following thoughts: "On behalf of Qatar's Defense Attaché Office, we would like to join all Americans on this Veterans Day in honoring the men and women who have served their country. The spirit of a true hero is defined by the size of their heart and love for their country. The people in uniform of Qatar and the United States are exemplars of patriotism and national service."

Admiral William Fallon USN (Ret.), former Commander of USCENTCOM and Board Member of the Qatar-America Institute, a U.S.-Qatar non-profit organization based in Washington, DC which seeks to enhance understanding and friendship between the people of Qatar and the U.S., had these remarks to share: "On this Veterans Day, 2017, people in the U.S.A. remember and honor the service that the men and women of our armed forces have offered to secure peace and liberty for their fellow Americans and in many distant parts of the world. It is particularly heartwarming to see our Qatari partners join in honoring veterans."

The United States and Qatar are longtime partners committed to preserving stability in the region through joint military operations and efforts against terrorism. Qatar is an inaugural member of the US-led counter-ISIL Coalition. Qatar is home Al Udeid Air Base, which is host to U.S. Central Command Forward, U.S. Air Force Central Command Forward, U.S. Special Operations Command Forward, the Combined Air Operations Center, and the 379th Air Wing. The growing number of American military personnel on the base ? now upwards 10,000 ? is a reflection of the trusted friendship and strong bilateral strategic relationship. 

SOURCE Qatar-America Institute