Subject: Honor V-J Day by Funding Demining in the Pacific
Dear Senator/Representative,
As we observe Victory over Japan Day marking 80 years since the end of World War II, I urge you as your constituent to support increased funding for the humanitarian demining programs that remove explosive remnants of war in the Pacific and across the globe.
The Solomon Islands were bombed heavily between 1942 and 1944 as Allied forces fought for control against Japan, leaving a deadly legacy of unexploded ordnance (UXO). Intense fighting for control of Guadalcanal resulted in the hills being nicknamed "Bloody Ridge" and left large swathes of the island heavily contaminated with UXO. Decades later, these explosives still haunt communities and threaten the lives and livelihoods of families across the country.
State Department Conventional Weapons Destruction programs address the impacts of landmines, IEDs, and other explosive remnants of war in the Pacific and beyond. CWD programs also build security partnerships in the Pacific and elsewhere where the U.S. is competing with China for access and influence, and project American soft power by providing a direct benefit to local populations while deminers wear highly visible U.S. flags.
Global demining programs make America safer by removing explosive hazards that threaten U.S. troops and other Americans stationed abroad while providing safety for local civilians. Demining programs transform conflict impacted countries into new markets for American companies – making America more prosperous.
Given the importance of CWD programs in the Pacific in beyond in saving lives, protecting U.S. security interests, and creating trade opportunities, I hope you'll support increased funding at a level of $290 million for CWD activities in the FY26 State Department budget.
Thank you for your support in transforming the memory of war into a legacy of peace.
Sincerely,
[Name]
