There is something that has been bothering me for some time now. The reason it does so goes way back to my first tour in VietNam when I operated under "Rules of Engagement". I was not allowed to shoot at someone or thing unless I was shot at first. In my mind, that put me, and others conducting our mission, at a distinct disadvantage.
The same type rules of engagement are now in place in Afganistan. Our soldiers must see a weapon before they can return fire.
I understand that collateral damage...the killing of civilians must be held to an absolute minimum. I also understant we cannot win any conflict fighting it on terms that favor our enemy.
Some of our fighters are now on or close to entering their 6th tour in the Middle East. It is, in my opinion, unconcionable to expect them to fight with one hand tied behind their back.
Either we should allow them to do what is necessary to do their job or we should get out post haste. Our trying to "nation build" in Afganistan is not worth one American life considering what we know regarding the area.
Unfortunately, there is nothing you or I can do about the Rules of Engagement. It is a military matter. I do have deep seated feelings regarding them as I was hamstrung by them as well. How do you feel about them?
One thing more. If we are going to continue to put our service men and women in harm's way for as many as 6 tours, maybe we should reinstate the draft and let all eligible have a turn.
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Beach Fanatic
The Taliban hate us too, If or when they get the opportunity to kill some of us, they don't care if you are young or old, black or white, male or female, republican or democrat. They don't fight fair.
Whether you "approve" of the war or not doesn't matter. We are there and our countrymen fighting deserve a fighting chance.
Whether you "approve" of the war or not doesn't matter. We are there and our countrymen fighting deserve a fighting chance.
Beach Fanatic
I believe DuneAHH is saying that the absurdity is the fact that we are engaged in these protracted stalemates in the first place, never mind the rules of engagement. Well, if she's not saying that, then I am. Don't get me wrong, after 9/11 I could see the wisdom of bombing the crap out of parts of Afghanistan and taking out the Taliban. Then we should have gotten out, regrouped, and beefed up domestic security (as we did). I think the problem is that many, many Americans Republican and Democrat wanted us to "run the table" so to speak militarily. I think they were motivated by anger, fear, and the exhiliration that some people get from decimating a society different from their own.
Yes, that IS what I'm saying. As elders, we should NOT continue to perpetuate that which places (or deserts) young Americans in untenable situations.
It would be erroneous to assume that I disrespect our American armed forces.
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