On Mon, 2 Feb 2004 09:57:32 -0800, "David Pugh"
-cay wrote:

"Ed Rasimus" wrote in message
.. .
Whether his medals or someone else's, the issue is not the ownership,
but the oath--to protect and defend. To obey the lawful orders.
Enemies foreign and DOMESTIC. These are phrases of meaning and relate
to a commissioned officer, who never unless stripped of the rank is
anything less, has an obligation to the President he serves and the
warriors still in the fray. To undermine the support for half a
million fighting men still in harm's way by leading protests against
the duly elected government of his country--that's the sin.

So, what is the proper course of conduct for an officer who truely believes
the war is a mistake and that the best course of action is to withdraw as
soon as possible? If that is the case, then undermining support for the war
does not seem to be entirely inappropriate (provided it is a last resort and
care is taken to avoid giving aiding the enemy -- ala Jane Fonda).

Resignation of his/her commission is the start. Then removal of the
uniform. Finally, a commitment to restrict the protest to the TRUTH.

Much has been written about the Kerry statements in his senate
testimony and public appearances on behalf of VVAW regarding
atrocities, etc. which has been since proven false.

Once one has done that, there really is no going back and wrapping
oneself in the flag over honorable service. If the war was as evil as
he testified, then he was right in protesting and apologizing for his
service in such an evil endeavor. But, now he seems to seek approval
for his actions, which were in support of an illegal, immoral war.
Seem a bit hypocritical?


Ed Rasimus
Fighter Pilot (USAF-Ret)
"When Thunder Rolled"
Smithsonian Institution Press
ISBN #1-58834-103-8