I certainly agree with the recent letter to the editor heading that “No one wants to attack Syria.”

I also agree with the statement in the letter that we should pray for peace. Although there is no good course of action in this situation, I strongly believe that taking no action is the worst possible course. Taking no action will be a signal to Syrian dictator Bashar Assad and other tyrants that they can commit any atrocities they want on their people, or on others, with impunity. It will encourage Syria, Iran and other governments to ignore world opinion and standards of humanity, because they know there will be no consequences for their actions. Who will be targeted next? Simply more of their own people? Eventually our allies or other friendly countries? Who?

Certainly diplomatic action would be preferable, but Russia and to an extent China and Iran seem determined that no effective diplomatic action can take place.

I spent 21 years in the military, initially enlisted and then as an officer. I flew on combat missions during the Vietnam War. I was part of the planning staff for the 1986 airstrikes against Libya. I hold a master’s degree in national security affairs. I say all of this to emphasize that I would not lightly commit any U.S. forces to combat because I know from personal experience what the results can be.

However, I watch in horror the pictures on TV. How will God and history judge us if we simply mouth platitudes as children are slaughtered so sadistically? When these weapons are turned on more people, if they are used against friendly nations, if they are used against us, how and when will we finally react?

 

Mike Miller
Albert Lea