Tom Quirk served two tours in Iraq before being retired in 2006. He raises big questions and offers controversial answers about war, culture and America in the 21st century.
What I think: (though i don't know much about American history) Prior to vietnam war americans fought the good war. Then vietnam...and americans realized they can't necessarily trust their governments motivations for sending American soldiers to war. But back then, it was taken out on the soldiers as if they were in on it. With Iraq, Americans now blame the government not the soldiers for going to war for the wrong reasons. Perhaps soldiers were duped, politicians lie. Not soldiers fault.
I feel that we have two main obligations to the troops: to send them to war for legitimate reasons and to insure their safety and return as best we can. I do not understand anger at an individual soldier as a way of disagreeing with political policy.
What I think: (though i don't know much about American history) Prior to vietnam war americans fought the good war. Then vietnam...and americans realized they can't necessarily trust their governments motivations for sending American soldiers to war. But back then, it was taken out on the soldiers as if they were in on it. With Iraq, Americans now blame the government not the soldiers for going to war for the wrong reasons. Perhaps soldiers were duped, politicians lie. Not soldiers fault.
ottawa856 1 month ago
You dont want to be called a hero, I can respect that. But try to understand, WE true AMERICANS are proud of our service people. Thank you.
1graceland 2 months ago
@tanyaluts relax, hes retired 0311 youd be tight too.
PointlessComedy 4 months ago
tom, you seem a little tight.
loosen up a little.
as for your "bold moves," if they involved torturing innocents, you shouldn't be congratulated and patted on the back.
get on with your life and stop wallowing in your military memories.
or get help.
tanyaluts 9 months ago
You need haircut
SuperWazzo 9 months ago
Here is a strong warrior. Smart. And well spoken. I see a future comander in cheif.
WWIIIBABY 9 months ago
I feel that we have two main obligations to the troops: to send them to war for legitimate reasons and to insure their safety and return as best we can. I do not understand anger at an individual soldier as a way of disagreeing with political policy.
SophiaHearsVoices 9 months ago
Well said...
JoanPBall 9 months ago