There is truth in the idea that soldiers are our designated warriors. But the accidental revelation in these attitudes is the bizarre concept that by soldiers choosing a life of taking risks on our behalf, these war supporters are somehow absolved of any responsibility to them other than emotional support and approval. There is the stink of … the troops as employees. Like, say, gardeners. Not that I would ever make such a crude comparison.But the fact is that soldiers make this choice in a specific context. They are not just entering a job. They are, to pull up my Catholic high school education, entering into a covenant with us. They take an oath to sacrifice their lives, if need be. That is, in my faith anyway, the holiest thing a person can do. In return, the civilian side of the covenant is a deep responsibility, a responsibility far beyond the emotional support one gives a sports team, or the minimal responsibility one has with employees.Our oath is simple:We will make sure you have the equipment you need.We will make sure have a clearly defined mission.
We will make sure that such missions are as well-planned as possible.
We will take care of your families while you are gone.
We will take care of you when you come home.
Is “supporting the troops” just waving flags, writing supportive essays, and arguing for the nobility of their mission? I say no, those actions are laudable but meaningless if they are not backed by these concrete goals.
There is such a difference in saying your supporting the troops and then needlessly putting them in harm’s way, not giving them proper benefits, not taking care of the families and not giving them appropriate equipment. The Republicans today are trying to force the Democrats in the position of appearing not to support the troops because they support a pull out of troops from Iraq–these constant divisive tactics (along with the gay marriage and flag burning issues) that seem to take their time while several global crises are looming does make one question the wisdom of a popular democracy. We don’t seem to be set up to deal with a looming catastrophe like global warming. I feel at such a loss and yet energized and ready to fight as well.