[USMCVet]

The concepts of "measured response" and "accountability" seem to be alien to generations of Israeli leaders. We have been their most dependable (and generous) allies since the nation of Israel was formed. We have stood by them against all comers and I still remember watching workmen spraypainting Stars of David over the US insignia on A-4 Skyhawks as they were being prepared in Norfolk to be sent to replace Israeli losses in the '73. We sent those planes and we sent tanks and we sent everthing else we could during that dark and desperate time, even though virtually no one in Europe would assist us and we paid a hard price in the Arab Oil Embargo that followed.

Despite this history, there has been no real investigation, no real accounting, and no real conclusion to the acts that killed and wounded so many American servicemen aboard the Liberty. There are conspiracy theorists in abundance (particularly on this FreeRepublic of ours) because Israel has stonewalled its best friend with inadequate responses and in the case of this IAF officer, unfeeling arrogance. He and all of those in responsibility for that attack should have been court-marshalled. There should have been a meaningful apology and there should be a memorial in Israel to the American men who fell at their hands.

[rrrod]

All accounts of this have lead me to believe this was an accident..that doesnt make it so tho. I cannot think of a single reason for Israel to attack a US war ship. Perhaps will will never really know but the conspiracy goons will have a field day as always with this story. RIP the 34.