Local active military, veterans react to fight against ISIS

JACKSONVILLE, NC (WWAY)– Local military personnel are speaking out about President Obama’s request to congress to authorize military force against ISIS. With a large population of active military and veterans close by, that decision could affect a huge community right here.

It’s centered around Camp Lejeune. From active duty men and women to veterans to their families, Jacksonville is a military town. So a decision from the president to fight ISIS is something Air Force Veteran Emory Keck says they are all prepared for.

“You’re doing your job,” Keck said.

But it’s a job that affects the entire community.

“It affects friends and families foremost,” Keck said. “No family wants to see another son get lost in a situation like that. No spilled blood.”

An active duty man wanted to remain anonymous, but he told me he’s been expecting this decision and he’s ready.

“Our job is to, you know, defend the nation. We are a force ready to answer that call,” the man said.

But Keck say he thinks this decision to fight ISIS is the right one.

“Get these people to understand that we don’t joke anymore and it’s time to put an end to all of this nonsense,” Keck said.

It’s an end he says they need to approach the right way.

“Any time Americans are losing their lives in a foreign country, it’s devastating not only to this country but to families just like Iraq and Iran,” Keck said. “If he’s going to do this thing then let’s do it and do it right.”

Congress will now hold hearings, have floor debates and probably won’t vote on the authorization until Spring.