"Not one soldier should die protecting civilians from harm."
That would be nice, but did not work for the Russians in Chechnya where they used fuel air bombs and more, to kill over 100,000 .
Like the dog that does not see or comprehend the image on a TV, to the islamist much of our world does not exist. Yes they would be just as dead but, it needs to be done so they get the message.
I say this with trepidation, as our USMC son prepares for a second tour of the sand box.
God bless your son, and may he be surrounded by the light and power of God. Tell him "Thank you."
This war, as others before it, is not just about who has the biggest gun. Though big guns, and fightin Marines, and really thick armor, sure come in handy. It's about some higher principles, It's about religion and morality. It's about government and how best for men, and nations, to arrange their affairs with each other.
Training my dog with a bullet to its head doesn't count. Nor do video tapes, lectures or books do the mutt any good. I have to train my dog in ways it understands. And I have to do so with honor, for my own soul as much as for the dogs.
But you said that, better than I could have.
I wish your son well.