Mark My Words - commentary on news, politics, religion, philosophy, science and social issues

According to Congressman John Murtha:

The war in Iraq is not going as advertised. It is a flawed policy wrapped in illusion. The American public is way ahead of us. The United States and coalition troops have done all they can in Iraq, but it is time for a change in direction. Our military is suffering. The future of our country is at risk. We can not continue on the present course. It is evident that continued military action in Iraq is not in the best interest of the United States of America, the Iraqi people or the Persian Gulf Region.

"The American public is way ahead of us", I presume by this you mean to say that Americans have already determined Iraq is a "flawed policy wrapped in illusion".

Well, last time I checked, my American citizen status had not been revoked. Therefore, I don't care how many medals or military titles, combat experiences or whatever you have but you sir, do not speak for me. I dont care how many wounded you have visited or how many medals you have given to someone. You do not speak for me!

The exit strategy for Iraq is victory. The cut and run "strategy" is what we did in Somalia and that emboldened Bin Laden, why would the terrorists react any differently now?

Since Murtha thinks that formerly wearing a uniform gives him super duper immunity to criticism powers, perhaps he should read this letter from a fellow Vietnam veteran.

There is no "peace with honor" when you leave before the job is done.

See the job through to the end despite the obstacles and challenges.

Just once.

And yes, if it's important, I wore this country's uniform for 28 years as an infantry officer. I believe as much in the oath I took then as I do now. More importantly, I remember the feeling that my country had abandoned me as if it were yesterday, and I vowed if it ever tried it again, I'd speak up loudly and often.

It would be nice to believe you too remember that, and you too had made that sort of a vow.