And Truman was right. There weren't any 'civilians' in Hiroshima or Nagasaki. Both were major munitions manufacturing centers and military bases. In Japan, during WWII, every 'citizen' considered themselves a warrior prepared to fight and die for the Empereror. As a nation they were steadfastly ready to die to the last man and woman.
Dresden as well was a munitions manufacturing city and the people who make arms are as much of an asset as the machines and materials. We were at war with the whole of Germany. The only innocents in Dresden might have been some Jews that hadn't been sent to death camps yet.
There are a number of Ghandi quotes that I really like. One that is little known is, to paraphrase "The most horrible act the British ever perpetrated on Indians was to disarm them." Ghandi was cool. He backed and blessed an army that fought a bloody war to success.
There is hardly a point in this long essay that isn't incorrect, misinterpreted, mischaracterized or just plain muddled thinking. I salute the man for serving his country when called! But if his current point of view comes from guilt for having done that duty he is now serving himself and his country poorly indeed.
I am rarely proud of politicians but I'm proud as punch that George W. Bush says "There will be no negotiations." and means it. This 'war' isn't just about "getting the ones who did it". Or rounding up all the ones who are thinking about being terrorists. It is also about sending a message that can't be misunderstood.