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OPERATION ALLIES REFUGE FOUNDATION
SUPPORTING THOSE WHO HELD THE LINE
NO VETERAN SHOULD HAVE TO FIGHT THEIR BATTLES ALONE.
STANDING FOR THOSE WHO HELD THE LINE
MORAL INJURIES
The Kabul Evacuation left many service members struggling with moral injuries. After witnessing the desperation and the suffering of countless Afghan civilians, many soliders, marines, sailors and airmen--had been inflicted with deep emotional and psychological wounds. The chaotic scenes of families torn apart, children left behind, and lives lost had irrevocably altered their conscience. These service members who had faced harrowing decisions, often having to prioritize some lives over others, are now faced with challenging their own ethical and moral beliefs. The sense of helplessness and perceived failures during the evacuation led to feelings of guilt, shame, and a profound questioning of their own values and actions. These moral injuries can cause lifelong psychological challenges, revealing the often heart-wrenching realities of war and humanitarian crises.
WHOEVER SAVES ONE LIFE SAVES THE WORLD ENTIRE.
In August, 2021 the world watched as the Afghan Capital of Kabul fell into turmoil. The rapid advancement of the Taliban had set the stage for one of the most intense and urgent evacuation missions in history. The Kabul Airport became the focal point of this mission, where scenes of desperate attempts to flee the country were characterized by harrowing images of chaos and bravery.
For many who had assisted U.S and NATO forces over the past two decades, the fear of reprisal was overwhelming. The airport became their only source of hope and refuge, symbolizing the epicenter of an exodus.
In response, U.S. and Allied Forces launched a monumental evacuation effort. They worked tirelessly, risking their own lives to go beyond the call of duty to save as many people as possible. Without hesitation, they waded through throngs of desperate people in order to rescue and guide terrified families to safety. Through these acts, they offered a glimmer of hope in an otherwise dire situation.
“Moral injury involves the psychological, emotional, and spiritual impact of having transgressed one's moral beliefs, or having witnessed others do so. It’s a profound betrayal of one's moral code that results in deep-seated feelings of guilt, shame, and disillusionment. In light of this, we have a fundamental obligation to support warriors and honor the promises we make to them. Protecting and supporting those who serve is not just about fulfilling a duty but about upholding our commitment to their well-being, acknowledging their sacrifices, and ensuring that they are not left to grapple with their moral injuries alone.
It’s our responsibility to provide the care and support needed to help heal these deep wounds and reaffirm our dedication to those who have given so much in service to others."
-Joseph Laude, Founder and CEO- OAR Foundation
THEY SAVED COUNTLESS LIVES.
OUR MISSION: To Provide Support and Advocacy to Veterans Who Have Sustained Moral Injuries Through Research and Treatment, Education, Community, and the Sharing of Personal Experiences
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