I Support the Troops but Oppose the War

The dis-oriented author has been a reluctant supporter of the so-called war in Iraq. Almost three years ago, I began posting on the topic (see my2004 post: The so-called War in Iraq) though my misgivings go back to the days before the invasion.

Let me clarify what I mean by my opposition to the war. I mean that I think it was ill-advised to go into Iraq. I also believe that if we were going to overthrow a sovereign government, we should have had a real declaration of war.

But, that was then, this is now. We are in Iraq and to pull out now would be a disaster.

Many of my Republican friends would say that it is impossible to support the troops and oppose the was. I beg to differ. I have already indicated my opposition to the war — what about my support for troops?

I am writing this post from Columbia, South Carolina. I am here to celebrate my son Jonathan's graduation from Army Basic Training at Fort Jackson. In the past two years, my oldest two sons have both joined the armed forces. My oldest son Jedidiah is currently at his Advanced Individual Training (AIT) as a US Navy Sailor. Jonathan will leave this weekend for his AIT. Both of my boys volunteered for military service in the midst of the current conflict.

Despite my feelings about the initial decision to go to war, I support the troops.

 

Jedidiah

Jonathan