[Thumper1960]

America is neither feared, nor respected. For quite some time, America has neither spoken strongly nor spoken softly and carried a big stick. There is virtue in periodically squashing an opponent, merely to illustrate that it can and will be done. Those that object to American militarism and strength through example are members of a Fifth Column of traitors in a dangerous world. Seeing a potential future threat to national sovereignty, it is important to eliminate that potential before it becomes too large to easily rid ourselves of. The rules of engagement, the rules of warfare, the past exercise of restraint are foolhardy tactics. Recognizing the potential threats and disposing of them, with prejudice, is a prerequisite to national and cultural survival. Those who object can be dealt with as traitors to our survival. Kid gloves are of no use to a man, or a nation, with calloused hands.

[The Westerner]

Many people responded exactly as you on Sept 11. People who were traditionally dovish. Had our military acted decisively in the first week, our nation would be safer today. Not necessarily from further attacks within our borders already in play. But as you say, we would be respected finally. Now we look rather foolish. Building up to a war with decreasing rhetoric daily to the point of allowing our Sec of State to have the last word after our Pres has spoken. And what were those words addressed to a foreign press? That the war against terrorism will never end. Sometimes I believe American foreign policy is being run by hippies.