[MizSterious]

Partly, it's because nobody (or almost nobody) believes we're actually AT war. Life since 9/11/01 has seemed so normal, for most of us. I sometimes wonder if the Bush admin (and/or other powers that be) made a mistake in return the nation to normalcy so quickly. In WWII, we always KNEW we were at war, and likewise, in most ways, with the "cold war." People might get the stomach for war if they believed it was urgent that they do so. At least some would--not counting 'Rats, of course.

[leadpenny]

Agree.

[TomGuy]

I sometimes wonder if the Bush admin (and/or other powers that be) made a mistake in return the nation to normalcy so quickly.

Yes.

We got the 'go about your business, but be aware, be vigilant (but not vigilant like those vigilante Minutemen who actually want to do something), go the mall, shop til you drop.'

[mtbopfuyn]

I remember during the Cuban Missile Crisis, we would NEVER let the gas tank get lower than half in case we had to get out of town. Being a little tike, I don't know if many had much plans beyond that or if they even thought about foodstuffs or other survival. However, many built bomb shelters that probably wouldn't have sustained much of anything, but then we all knew that crouching under our school desks would be the saving of America.

[AustinBill]

The big difference is that WW II was the last time Congress exercised its exclusive constitutional power to declare war. I continue to believe that one of President Bush's biggest mistakes in the aftermath of 9/11 was not demanding that Congress make a formal war declaration. He could have gotten it in the week after the attack and once made there could be no doubt on anyone's part that we really were at war.

[mathluv]

In one sense, the return to 'normalcy' was needed for the economy. 9/11 was a huge hit, and some repercussions are still being felt - e.g., the airplane industry.

The libs are aiding it by refusing to help with oil and refineries.