OPINION:
The latest liberal military adventure, the war on Libya, leads me to think it is time that the public hears the thoughts of an American combat veteran (“NATO agrees to lead airstrikes against Gadhafi,” Page 1, Monday).
All we hear from the political left is that the goals of such combat operations are humanitarian: The Libyan war is not about blood for oil, it is about sending American fighting men into harm’s way to protect others who are fighting for freedom against terrible odds. Too bad that entire argument is nonsensical.
The oaths taken by the president, vice president, members of Congress and all employees of the United States government are to support and defend the Constitution against all enemies, foreign and domestic. Since nothing about Libya or Moammar Gadhafi threatens any U.S. security interest or other national interest, this war is not about supporting and defending the Constitution. It violates that oath on its face.
All the American people ask is to be led by a competent political leadership and military commanders, and that our lives be risked only in fulfillment of our oaths. Do not send us to injury or death so some people can feel good about themselves. We are not toy soldiers to be moved about on a map.
Loyalty is something that runs in both directions. Patriots have sworn loyalty to this nation and those placed in command of us. Because we are loyal, we honor our oaths and will obey the orders we receive, even if we know it means we will suffer terrible injuries or meet certain death. We expect and demand that the political leadership of this great nation - presently liberals - and our commanders will be loyal to us.
Therefore, I say to those who would throw away the lives of our dedicated and courageous fighting men in order to feel good about themselves: Why don’t you take their places? I am sure they will be happy to take yours.
MAJ. JAMES M. DORN
U.S. Army Reserve (retired)
Chino Hills, Calif.
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