Nov 11 2008
Veterans Day means different things to different people
Veterans Day means different things to different people. For many Americans it seems that there is no universal sense that the men and women who have worn the uniform are to be regarded in the same way.
Wars and military conflicts that we believe we were right to conduct seem to afford their veterans more honor than wars we opposed. Hence the World War II vet was seen instantly as a noble warrior, whereas, for a long time in this country, and for some still, the Vietnam veteran was not.
In the just-completed presidential campaign opponents to the war in Iraq were quick to say that they support the troops, even while they condemn the war. I have always found this kind of reasoning difficult to understand. Soldiers, sailors and Marines fight wars. That’s their purpose. They are trained to eliminate our enemies in the theater of battle. They have no other mission. That mission is war making. To suggest that we support our troops, but not the reason they exist is ridiculous.
If you oppose a war, don’t send the troops. If you send in the troops, let’s be realistic you intend the war making.
What is much more important to keep in mind is that those who have serve the interests of freedom in all wars over the years, are never in a position to refuse the mission they are given. Their oath is to serve. They may object, and a very few do on occasion, but otherwise, they fight, and place their lives on the line for the rest of us, whenever and wherever they are sent. They are not asked which conflicts they find acceptable. This is what makes these brave men and women honorable. This is why as a nation we hold them in high esteem, regardless of the wars that demanded their sacrifices. This why we they stand tallest among us. This is why we are forever grateful for their service.
On this Veterans Day, therefore, I find no cause to parse history. Every man and woman who has fallen in battle, and all others who offered any portion of their lives to defend what we all hold dear, deserves my respect and appreciation, and they have both. Without distinction, I honor even those who fought to protect our interests around the world, notwithstanding the popularity of those interests here at home.
Thank you for your service to your country.
(6 votes, average: 3.33 out of 5)
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“I have always found this kind of reasoning difficult to understand.” When the protection of Our Country is needed, we commit to war and send troops. When the Oil industry wants protection we should not commit to war and should not send troops.
Yes it right and necessary to support the Troops as individuals and in their entirety, but one can still oppose the unnecessary war that the President and Congress sends them to.
I also salute all of our Brave Men and Women who serve in our Armed Forces and National Guard, today on Veterans Day and every day through the year!