Who We Send To Serve

Some would argue that my characterization of the war as a failed mission is unfair, or premature. Those folks argue that, as we enter year nine, we need to show more patience, and commit more resources.

These two men were recent casualties of Operation Enduring Freedom. Robert Sanchez (pictured left) was on his fifth tour of duty fighting the war on terror. Sanchez was only 24 years old. At 24, he had already served three combat tours in Iraq, and was on his second combat tour in Afghanistan. When we ask the President to commit more troops, more soldiers don't magically appear. As his tribute attested, Sanchez was fearless, and a good soldier to the end. But why is it ok for us to send a man like him into a combat zone five times in six years to pursue a failed policy?

No combat death is easy to take, but there is nothing more heartbreaking than hearing about an engaged man (or woman) waiting to get back home. Brandon Owens (pictured right) was only 21, and he will never marry the love of his life. "He wanted to be a father," said his mother Lynda. "And a husband. God saw fit to something else for him." As did President Obama, Secretary Gates, General McChrystal, and all individuals who support the continuation of this reckless war.

Remember the men and women who serve every time you discuss "war strategy." This may be a volunteer army, but no kid who signs up for the Army Reserves out of high school asks for or deserves to be sent to a hostile land to train illiterate foreign fundamentalists to be policemen for a corrupt drug state.