No debate, we all support the troops

Published 9:00 pm Saturday, March 15, 2003

Many voices are raised in support of war with Iraq, and many are raised against it. Opinions are sharply divided. There is, however, one point used by those for war, which I feel is a disservice to those who hold a different opinion. It is the phrase about “supporting the troops.”

I have listened to both sides argue, but never have I heard anyone among those who do not want war say, “I do not support our troops.” I believe their argument is with those who are sending our troops to war and endangering their lives, not those who have to fight it. In fact, I feel it’s getting a bit hollow to say “I support our troops,” while at the same time advocating they be sent into battle – particularly one that America starts.

The matter of war, or no war, should be debated on other points, not the invalid argument of who does and who doesn’t support the troops. Everybody does that.

I hope this thought might be of some help to anguished military families. And, I must admit, I have similar feelings of sympathy for those same families in Iraq who also have no say as to how these cataclysmic events will unfold.

Everett