While participating in my community's Veterans Day observance over the weekend, I was reminded of the sacrifices countless numbers of Americans have made to defend this country and to preserve the liberties enjoyed by all of us.

I am saddened that negativity about the Iraq War (Bush's war) became the issue in many political races across the U.S.A.   Why did the Iraq War——which is the main front in the War Against Global Terrorism——become so unpopular in the minds of many Americans?   Here is why:  Coupled with the anti—war rhetoric on the left were leaks critical of the Bush Administration; a constant barrage of  'doom and gloom' reports by the media augmented by graphic daily body counts; and a slavish obedience to political correctness.

If the truth could reach the American people, they would begin to understand that America is facing an even greater threat than during WW II with the perils posed by Nazism.  During WW II Germans killed for their Fuhrer; today Islamic fascists kill in the name of Allah.   Their goal is to Islamize the world, making Islam the dominant religion.  These Islamic jihadists scoff at the naivety of those who believe appeasement can bring about understanding, for their hatred against Western civilizations, and especially the Great Satan America, supersedes all.

Isn't it time for the American people to wake up from their self—indulgent slumbers and realize what consequences lie ahead if victory is not the outcome in Iraq?   America is at war, and it's folly to deny what should be obvious——America is involved in a fight to preserve civilization and our way of life.  Losing in Iraq is not an option.

Have Americans become so short—sighted that they are oblivious to looming threats on the horizon?  Have they forgotten the sacrifices made by brave men and women throughout America's history?  Have they forgotten that in war soldiers die?   Hopefully Americans have not become a people who enjoy living in a free society but don't know how to fight to preserve that which they cherish.  Instead, may America's 'Experiment in Democracy' begun 230 years ago not fail, but remain strong, resolute, and determined.  Only time will tell the tale.
 
Nancy J. Thorner    11 12 06