Posted on 08/24/2007 5:43:52 AM PDT by Abathar
Also had the question over whether there was the opposite situation (with coalition forces killing Americans), but—as Abathar pointed out—the odds are stacked against the Americans (for doing the killing) because they seem to be the primary ones in the air, which seems to be where a lot of these friendly fire incidents are coming from.
Many British soldiers are working alongside Americans in Iraq, and when some of them are killed--and especially by Americans--comments such as yours (at this time, and on this thread) are in very poor taste.
First off, I'm not military but I typically work very closely with U.S. military personnel in the course of my daily business, so I know exactly what they are up against. Some of my closets pals are U.S. military, with one currently doing a second deployment in Iraq right now, and another just coming out of U.S. Army boot camp. I also know officers from all four service branches.
With that said, I have nothing but the utmost respect for UK troops, especially the SAS, SBS, Paras, and Commandos, and as I said privately to Rikstir, I think they are very poorly served by their government and politicians. My comments were directed toward the British politicos like Red Ken, Gordon Browne, etc., as well as MOD officials who have put them into a no-win situation in Basra.
When I first saw this particular article though, the first thing that jumped into my mind was that Brit coroner who tried to criminalize our airmen, as well as that Italian judge who put U.S. soldier Mario Lozano (http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/world/europe/article1665561.ece) on trial for accidentally killing that Italian military chief in Baghdad. I have since learned today that the guy lost his job because of his meddling in coalition politics.
But, like it or not, the lesson is that there are libs in both the UK and in Europe (and sadly, even here in the U.S.) who would like nothing more than to haul American servicemen into court and throw the book at them for these types of accidents, just to make political statements.
However, my remarks here were intemperate and in poor taste on this particular thread, and I apologize for making them here. Still, I can't help but wonder how long it will take before someone does try to make this a criminal issue for political reasons, which I am contemptuous of.
Fair enough, you have apologised.
I think we all know the logic of your argument, it was just a matter of timing. If a court case should ever arise from this, that will be the time to put your point across. Now is the time to mourn for those have died in our name.
My father fought alongside US servicemen in Gulf War I, he is well aware of how professional they are. We all know these incidents are horrific accidents that can’t be helped - I’m sure the crew involved are suffering terribly as we speak.
Instead of discussing the ins and outs of it, I’d rather concentrate my thoughts on ALL of the coalition soldiers (and their families) who continue to do an amazing job in protecting our respective countries.
My heart sinks with every death, the friendly fire kills seem to hurt the most..
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