The United States entered World War I. The "Great War", as it was called, lasted for four years. Our brave military men and women have currently been engaged for twice that amount of time, with no end in sight. I commend them for their service and dedication, and hope for their safe return as soon as possible.
I don't intend this to be a pro-military, or anti-war diary. As a veteran, I am both of those things, and do not wish anyone to be in harm's way. I try to stay away from most topics that are, or could be political, when I write. I feel that there are so many good diarists here covering all things political, that I have nothing new to add.
War is political, it always has been, it always will be. I wish that were not true, but I believe it to be. World War I began in 1914 and we did not enter until 1917. Today, we find ourselves engaged in two wars that we started. I try, everyday, to think of those fighting overseas, so I can sit in the comfort of my home and prattle away about any inanity that strikes my fancy.
Follow me into a foxhole...
I mentioned that I was a veteran, I was a Boiler Technician on the USS Shasta AE-33 ('84-'87). It was during this time that the USS Stark (FF-31) was struck by two Iraqi missiles. 37 sailors lost their lives and 21 were wounded. I remember that event vividly, and everyone on my ship was willing to lay down his life in retaliation. Iraq basically said, "Oops, my bad." and nothing happened other than an increased presence of the U.S.N. in the Persian Gulf.
Today I'm glad that my mettle was not tested by that tragedy. Today, too many American soldiers' lives are in jeopardy. 93 years ago today, our "doughboys" risked all, for me to be able to write this tonight. Thank you, to all vets, everywhere, for everything. Thank you. I'd like to end this with a link to a nice feature over at Crooks and Liars.