Michael Steinberg's recent column, "Israel is right to protect its citizens, country," is factually correct. No country should have to endure the type of constant upheaval as is being experienced in the Middle East. It is also likely that the United States will soon be drawn into yet another war, this time to defend Israel.
Before we wave the patriotic flag, let us remember the lessons of Iraq and the fact that more than 2,030 American service members and Defense Department civilians have been reported killed in the Afghanistan war. The cumulative time that our military has now served in Iraq and Afghanistan is probably more than that served by those who fought in World War II.
When we as a nation cease treating our military as our employees, I will proudly say "go to war" when all other measures have failed.
To truly test our patriotism, I suggest that it is time to reinstate the military draft or some other alternative form of service to the United States. My guess is many feelings of war and patriotism would likely come to an end.
- James K. Ladd, Indianapolis
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