Saturday, March 25, 2006

Supporting our Troops.




Once again, a week filled with various stories from Afghanistan. Get used to it, because we're there for the long haul.

Christie Blatchford's introspective articles have brought a face of our military representatives into our living rooms. I for one have been rivetted by her articles and her ability to write in a manner that is grounded in feeling and texture. Her article in the Focus section of the Globe and Mail today provided an in-depth look into a slice of the activity and danger that our troops are facing. What's more revealing is the level of dedication and determination they espouse and show.

Cpl. Franklin, who lost both legs in a suicide bombing attack gave his first interview this week. Sitting next to his wife, talking emotionally and openly, he described some of the horrendous ordeal that he experienced and how devastating it has been to personally acknowledge that his loss. When he described his thought during the bombing, it was very apparent that his extensive training automatically kicked in, which consequently helped him survive the ordeal. He also stated that having to decide to have his second leg amputated was the most wrenching decision he has ever made. I thoroughly appreciated his candor during the interview and his ability to share some of his story.

His future plan? To continue in the military to facilitate medic training. I was left with feeling a strong sense of awe for his bravery, honesty and fortitude. Let's hope that one day, this individual who oozes integrity will run for office.

Prime Minister Harper was interview last night on the Maritime CTV news during his recent spending spree visit through the province of New Brunswick. When asked what he thought about the fact that there are many Canadians who want our troops to pull out of Afghanistan because "it isn't our war," he admitted that he doesn't quite understand this perspective.

Why? Because Canadians and other countries, especially the ones who lost good people in the 9-11 World Trade Centre attack, signed on to fighting and defeating Bin Laden and his band of deadly terrorists..........it is our war.

People have short memories. The horror of the attack on September 11, 2001 seems to have disipated in intensity..............even with the ongoing attacks by Islamic terrorists continuing around the world.........London, Spain, Bali................... numerous others. Canadians have this head in the sand mentality that it would never happen on our soil. Wake up!

What would happen if we sat on the sidelines and didn't participate in the activities in Afghanistan and then a terrorist attack touches our country directly? Would other countries support us if we don't support them? Don't think so...................

We are at war. It is our responsibility to be involved. This is not the time to be debating this issue. This is the time to be supporting our men and women who are alert, armed and involved in the battle of our lives. National unity on this issue? Yes.......we need to be.......fully supportive across this country. No question!!

God bless Canada.


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