As I mentioned earlier this week, I was completely and totally creeped out by the macabre planning being done by the anti-war movement to mark the 2000 death of American troops in Iraq. Aside from the fact that the number is bogus and the idea of people gathering to celebrate such a thing (and, sorry, it is nothing short of celebration by anyone's definition except people who frequent MoveOn.org's site) makes my stomach churn, I can't help but marvel at the complete and utter inability of those who did choose to celebrate to allow others to express their opposition as well. Once again, the only opinion that is correct are those of the enlightened chosen few who would rather hold up a sign that reads, "Maimed for a Lie" outside an Army Medical Center than one that reads, "Thanks & Get Well Soon!" Seriously, I NEED to know...just how high does the BS have to pile before these clowns start suffocating? Of course, the case could be made they are full of it, made of it or somehow in concert with BS so they survive it? Whatever the case, it's taking too long!
I'm not the only person who finds this type of behavior repugnant. Maybe it's because my husband could be called to go at anytime. Maybe it's because I have an ever-growing binder full of names, contact information and letters full of photographs of real, live people attached to the so-called statistics whom I'm growing attached to more each day. Perhaps it's because I've connected with mothers, wives, sisters, and even some husbands and boyfriends who are praying each day for their loved one's safe return from deployment. I suppose it's a combination of all those things plus not being such a candy ass that I have no problem saying I am an American and thankful to be.
The BS is being slung, however, and I want to call your attention to it because is shines a bright light upon the real motivation of those who supposedly support the troops, but want peace. NOBODY LIKES WAR. But, when the time comes, I like victory...alot. Peace at all costs is a dangerous and naive proposition. It puts everyone in a precarious spot and history shows us time again that weakness is like blood in the water to those seeking to do us harm.
If you're interested in raising your blood pressure a peg or two, check out Blackfive today & his response to the characterization of him & others who categorize themselves a military bloggers. Also, don't miss Little Green Footballs response as well as the link to photos from these "gatherings" that weren't, supposedly, celebrations--but there are more smiling faces here than in those cheesy Mentos commercials. The comments are worth reading too and might return you to a resting heart rate.
I only wish I had known that my own fair city was hosting such a celebration last night so I could have secured a sitter. I think my "Proud Army Wife" sweatshirt would have served as quite a conversation starter.
I just looked at the pictures and am still in shock of all the SMILING people. I'm keeping my eyes open for such a "celebration" anywhere in my area. Not only will I wear my "Proud Army Wife" t-shirt, my boys will be wearing their "Future SGT Trantham" and "My Daddy is in Iraq...where's yours?" t-shirts. Let me just say this, if God forbid something ever happened to my husband, they better not ever be showing his picture at one of those "celebrations". Someone will get their ass kicked, by me. When I see that, I can't help thinking how they might as well just go spit on those soldiers' graves. Do they honestly think they are doing their memories justice by showing their pictures at such a rally? Ok, I'm going off now, I need to go post about this instead of rambling on and on in your comments.
Posted by: Jen | 27 October 2005 at 07:18 PM