November 20, 2019
By Lt. Col. Alexander S. Vindman
The uniform I wear today is that of the United States Army. The members of our all-
volunteer force are made up of a patchwork of people from all ethnicities, religions, and socio-economic backgrounds who come together under a common oath to
protect and defend the Constitution of the United States of America. We do not serve
any particular political party, we serve the nation. I am humbled to come before you
today as one of many who serve in the most distinguished and able military in the
world. The Army is the only profession I have ever known. As a young man I
decided that I wanted to spend my life serving the nation that gave my family refuge
from authoritarian oppression, and for the last twenty years it has been an honor to
represent and protect this great country.
Next month will mark 40 years since my family arrived in the United States as
refugees. When my father was 47 years old he left behind his entire life and the only
home he had ever known to start over in the United States so that his three sons could
have better, safer lives. His courageous decision inspired a deep sense of gratitude
in my brothers and myself and instilled in us a sense of duty and service. All three
of us have served or are currently serving in the military. Our collective military
service is a special part of our family’s story in America.
I also recognize that my simple act of appearing here today, just like the courage of
my colleagues who have also truthfully testified before this Committee, would not
be tolerated in many places around the world. In Russia, my act of expressing my
concerns to the chain of command in an official and private channel would have
severe personal and professional repercussions and offering public testimony
involving the President would surely cost me my life. I am grateful for my father’s
brave act of hope 40 years ago and for the privilege of being an American citizen
and public servant, where I can live free of fear for mine and my family’s safety.
Dad, my sitting here today, in the US Capitol talking to our elected officials is proof
that you made the right decision forty years ago to leave the Soviet Union and
come here to the United States of America in search of a better life for our
family. Do not worry, I will be fine for telling the truth.
Read Lt. Col. Alexander S. Vindman’s complete Opening Statement here.