Arizonans who have served our country in the armed forces have earned our deep gratitude and our respect.  Veterans Day is a special day to celebrate their contributions and sacrifices. I appreciate what it means to serve after 27 years in the Naval Reserves myself. 
Unfortunately, these American heroes often fight a different battle here at home --one against consumer scams and identity theft.  All too often, veterans and active duty military personal are the targets of scams and unscrupulous business practices. Despite new laws and initiatives to curb such abuse, the trend continues.
My office has created a Protect Our Military spotlight on the Attorney General’s Web site (www.azag.gov) to make information easily available to veterans, active duty military and their dependants.  This Web site focuses on consumer information and resources, including links for free credit reports and information on how to request a credit freeze. There are also links to identity theft information, including the Identity Theft Repair Kit booklet and a video, Protect Yourself Against Identity Theft. In addition, there is a toll-free phone number (1-866-879-5219) especially for veterans who need assistance from the Attorney General’s office.

I have also formed an Attorney General’s Military & Veterans Advisory Council.  This group advises me and members of my staff on issues that impact active duty military, veterans and their families in Arizona. In addition, it will provide a look ahead to future challenges for veterans in Arizona.

Some of the issues the Advisory Council plans to address include scams targeting active duty military personnel, veterans and their families; questionable or fraudulent charity solicitations; military base encroachment by residential development; employment issues; and housing and mortgage problems.

Safeguarding our freedom is the gift our military personnel and veterans provide to each of us. I am committed to protecting Arizona’s active duty military personnel, their dependents and veterans against anyone who would do them harm.

Terry Goddard