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James Hamilton, M. D.
I have been trying to stay out of political discussions but where the military is involved I find that hard to do. Having worked as a civilian for over 30 years (and still do as a volunteer) for the Army, I developed some strong feelings on what kinds of operations should involve placing our military in combat situations.
Yes, I read both John's and MM's articles and my views aligned with what were MM's questions at the end of her post. To commit our military to harm's way we do need to consider American interests, defined objectives and some measure of length of time. Also if we have binding treaties with involved nations and the cost (financial, human life and destruction).
But what I would mostly like to see, if we are to enter into battle, is a Declaration of War. The last time the US declared war was WWII. And we won that one. Since then we have gotten involved in many "wars", "conflicts", "actions" and other fights which have resulted in many American deaths and casualties but with little or no significant help to our country or even the world. FDR, a Democrat, felt it was wrong to send troops to war without such a declaration. Declaration of War implies and demands true commitment on the part of our government. I do belive war should have been declared against the terrorists and those who harbored them after 9-11 but it never was.
This is an opinion that I have had for many years and is all I will say on this topic. You all may choose to agree or disagree and may quote whatever literature you want. I doubt I will change anyone's mind nor will anyone change mine.
We have debated many hot topics on this Forum and I don't think we have come to much agreement on any of them. But, go ahead and discuss them as I always enjoy reading all of your thoughts and arguments. By the way, were any of you who opine on these topics on our high school debate team? Some of you should have been.
Jim
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