Iraq - Finally Over!

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The war for the United States is over in Iraq.  What a blessing for our nation.  Thank God.  The past nine years has been one argument after another for me with those that believed we belonged in Iraq.  I will just say that I am delighted that our time in conflict in Iraq is over. 

The men and women, their leadership and our nation performed admirably for the most part in executing the war.  No question about that.  The wonderful men and women of our armed services and their families deserve our upmost thanks and appreciation for their unparalleled level of service.  My most significant hope is that we as a nation do not abandon these courageous men and women in the years ahead as they make their way back into the mainstream of America. 

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The task for our nation in helping, supporting and providing resource for these men and women must not falter.   Resources must be allocated for training, education and medical assistance for these soldiers and not just when they return.  Resources must be made available throughout their lives as they will face unimaginable issues, concerns and difficulties resulting from their months and years in battle.  Serious, sustained efforts must be made in the specific area of mental health.  Thousands of trained mental health providers must be allocated to serve these men and women who served our nation. 

Our President, Barack Obama, achieved what many did not feel could or would happen.  He ended this war and is bringing home our troops as promised.  President Obama has not been able to deliver on all his promises but on this very important promise he made, he has delivered.  My hearty congratulations to him for fending off those who believe we need to be there forever.  Only time will tell if Iraq can truly function on their own in the world.  We have made every effort to help them be successful.  They have to do it on their own now.

What lessons have we learned.  None.  We never, ever learn from our mistakes of war.  This was a deliberate, preemptive attack on the part of the United States of America.  I hope that our nation never again chooses to attack another nation without being attacked first.  I know that not everyone agrees with me but I remain steadfast in my belief that America only needs to respond when America is attacked.  We should never be the aggressor.  It goes against our nation's character, history and moral values. 

Who truly knows what history will say about the Iraq war.  I am confident that it will be a black eye for our nation.  Much will depend upon the next five  years and how Iraq functions or does not function.  I am just so happy that we are done and that our brave men and women will be coming home to their families.  I now hope and pray that our efforts in Afghanistan will soon draw to a close as well.  Let peace be our strong suit going forward.  God Bless America.