03.23.15

Hoeven Statement on ISIS List Targeting U.S. Service Members

WASHINGTON – Senator John Hoeven today issued the following statement in response to a list of United States service members targeted by ISIS. The list includes six Air Force members from North Dakota:

“The list of 100 American service members being targeted by ISIS in the United States underscores the importance of working with our allies to defeat them. What is needed is a vigorous air campaign in Syria and Iraq, as well as working with our allies in the region to train and equip local ground forces that can defeat the ISIS threat.

“At the same time, we need to enhance our efforts to fight extremist ideologies on the Internet and on social media. These mediums are a powerful source of new recruits to the Middle East to fight for the terrorist group, so we must do all we can to discourage any potential supporters from being persuaded to join their ranks.”

“An event like this reminds us of how much we appreciate our men and women in uniform and their families. We owe them a great debt of gratitude.”

The Air Force Office of Special Investigations and other Defense Department offices are working with federal and local authorities to notify the airmen of their inclusion on the list and have them reduce their online profiles, use privacy settings and limit the personal information they make available online. Details of the measures being taken are secure to protect the service members and their families.

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