In reply to Sonja Larson’s Oct. 9 letter (“Terrorism: Innocent people don’t deserve rage”). Her opening statement is, “I strongly disagree with government leaders who are declaring war on any country that supports any suspected terrorist.” To me, her statement is wrong.
I have been over a very good portion of this world, in some places I should not have been in. At this time even a prudent person would agree that the government of Afghanistan was and is behind any and all acts of terrorism against the United States. Not only are the leaders of Afghanistan against the United States but also any other country that they feel is against their religion or way of life.
When Japan attacked us, they aimed at our military. When the leaders of Afghanistan attacked us it was aimed at our civilians. There’s a big difference.
Declaring war is not declaring revenge. Of course not all of the Afghanistan people are behind the terrorists. However, if the bottom line is that I have to choose between innocent Americans being killed or innocent Afghanis being killed, I would say better them than us. Innocent lives will be lost on both sides. That is the reality of war. That is the choice we as Americans have to make in order to survive.
About six months ago, my only son told me that he was thinking about re-joining the Naval Reserve. I encouraged him so much that he did and was sworn in at the end of August. He attended two drills and did not even receive his uniform when he was called up for active duty. His unit was not called up, just individuals based on their past service training. I asked him how he felt about being activated and he said, “It just feels right.” He gave up a good-paying job and now he is in another state being trained to defend America.
I am not only proud of him but of all who were and are about to be called up for active service. To do service for your country is a privilege. To stand up for those who cannot is a right. To defend America is an honor. God bless America and keep it strong.
Camano Island
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