As with Vietnam, every new claim by the administration that the light is visible at the end of the tunnel
Bilow,
The light at the end of the tunnel was a metaphor used by LBJ in the 60s. He used it in a speech to OCS candidates at Ft Benning in late summer 1967 at the main post sport field. I heard the speech. I was there. He probably used it elsewhere but I was too busy to know about it.
GWB has said no such thing. Bush has repeatedly stated that this is going to be a long, protracted and complicated war fought on many fronts with many tools. We are presently engaged in Iraq, Afghan, philippines, SE Asia, East Africa, N Africa, Central Africa, S Africa, and W Africa, W Europe, E Europe, and several other locations. We are using all means available to counter the terrorist threat.
We have miles to go before we sleep, but the Vietnam analogy does not fit, not even close. Not politically and not realistically.
I will give you this. The task is daunting. The final end is far from clear. It is much too complicated to predict a US victory. But it is also much too complicated to predict a US defeat...and it is far too soon to critique the current tactics.
I served 11 years overseas in combat zones and other high risk areas. I know the American soldier and his capabilities on a battlefield. I believe we will win.
Today was a rough day for our Armed Forces and their families. If you think a bad day in combat softens the resolve of the American soldier or his family...I tell you, you are dead wrong. When the going gets tough we get tougher not softer.
There are some pundits and SI posters who lash out because they do not know what to do with their personal fears. That does mean we lost, nor does it mean we are losing.
unclewest |
