I appreciate your commitment to 'not letting it happen again'.
Having spent 24 months in the mideast supporting OIF/OEF I think that I have an idea what the troops think or did think as of this spring.
Most hate being away from home for so long and in a place where deprivation is a way of life. But KBR has done a fine job bringing them creature comforts: Gyms and MWR facilities; good meals; housing, showers and latrine facilities and other miscellaneous services. Life there now isn't as rough as it was during DS 1 or during the first phases of this conflict.
The troops like what they've done and what they're doing. They have helped the Iraqis shuck off the bondage of Saddam's tyranny and have birthed a new government; the troops have helps repair or install infrastructure; the troops have verified the horrendous and sadistic feats of brutality that saddam perpetrated on them; and the troops have battled outside forces intent on denying the Iraqis their chance at freedom.
What hurts the troops' morale is any impression that American civilians are weak and won't stick it out. They aren't begging to come home too soon, they're just afraid that the citizens adn government will lose courage and turn them into losers like they did to Viet Nam vets in the 70's.
No, we cannot let that happen again.
Thank you for your personal account of the sentiments of our troops. I have spoken to few compared to you. I also have friends from there and you articulated issues that must be overcome after decades of tyranny.
What hurts the troops' morale is any impression that American civilians are weak and won't stick it out.
This is what matters most!
I'am not a loser. Viet name vet.