Maddenation
Memorial Day II
It occurred to me a number of years ago that my father was born during World War I, I was born during World War II, and my first son was born during the Viet Nam War. Fortunately, my grandson and my grandfather were born in peace, so there’s hope.
It’s been 5 years since my first Memorial Day entry, and the war in Iraq that began that year is ongoing, now the longest war in our history. I am ashamed to say I supported this war. I was angry at Saddam Hussein and the inaction of the U.N. as he flouted their resolutions. I forgot to examine my conscience and reflect on the fact that it was a pre-emptive action, far from a last resort. Later, as the “nation building” began to fail and the casualties mounted, I changed my mind. It was wrong to pursue this war, and I was wrong to support it.
As I write this, mom and I are watching the Memorial Day concert from Washington, D.C. It’s a moving tribute to soldiers of all eras for their service and sacrifice. I know a little about that, both from the stories my father told and my own experience. Military men and women are trained to serve civilian leaders in our country, and they do so with a dedication and loyalty that is unsurpassed in any other profession. They fight, suffer injury, and die largely because of the decisions of others who they serve without question. That they exhibit bravery in fulfilling their mission is unquestioned. The tragedy is that sometimes they die in vain, despite what most of our leaders say.
How sad to think of the thousands who have died in Iraq thinking they are fighting for our freedom. I’m not even sure they’re fighting for our safety. I’m fearful they are fighting largely for the vanity of a few misguided men in Washington. That is what should never be forgotten.
Dad • Memories • 05/25/08 • 1 comments
Comments
Patrick • 06/03/08 • 3:00 AM:Half of your grandchildren were born during the Iraq War (on Terror). Soon that will be more than half. Eh.
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