The war in Iraq is over!  Or so we're told. 

Was it worth it?

As most of our troops are making their way out of Iraq under the cloak of darkness and the headlines of the world's media, my mind is flooded with more questionable images, somber reflections, and memories of time served than the resolute satisfaction imbibed by the media and our leaders.  As I think of the controversy and turmoil surrounding this war, I don't typically dwell on what brought us to the doorsteps of involvement.  Rather, I think of the lives that were lost and whether or not a lasting objective of peace and stability will ensue.  I have my doubts.

Our once considerable might brought down a dictatorship and ignited a will among the people of Iraq to pursue ideals of self-control and governance that literally changed their way of life.  We can thank the American Warrior and their allies for that.  We can thank the families that waited patiently at home hanging on the hopes that their loved ones would return safely to celebrate the freedoms we have come to enjoy and expect here in our country.  Sadly, some of the waiting was in vain as many did not return home alive.  Instead, they, our truest heroes, gave all so others could have but a chance to dream of one day tasting the freedoms we enjoy. 

Campaign promises often induce a fog of judgement that attempts to convince the world that the actions of a sound decision is underway.  Unfortunately, what typically exists is just the opposite.  Political positioning approaching an election year can, and often does, cloud the judgement and decision-making of those charged with the responsibility. 

Despite what you may believe about the war in Iraq, and despite the media coverage trying to convince you that "all" of our troops have withdrawn, the fact remains that there are still a significant number of U.S. troops remaining in Iraq.  It's not because our political leadership are master deceptors.  It's because they too see the handwriting on the wall - we're not finished! 

Take an honest look at the region and you'll find Iran salivating at the mere possibilities that exist on such a fertile landscape as Iraq.  The economic infrastructure of Iraq is in shambles.  Political leadership is fragmented and in disarray. We have no choice but to ensure they succeed. 

Was it worth it?

Fox News Jennifer Griffin recently asked US Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta, "Was it worth it?" It was clearly evident he struggled to find the right words as the question is so broad and diverse.  A simple yes or no would never suffice no matter who is charged with providing an answer. “To be sure, the cost was high,” he said. But “those lives were not lost in vain: They gave birth to an independent, free, and sovereign Iraq.” 

One of the surest ways we'll ever know if "it was worth it" will be in Iraq's resolve to exploit the opportunity so many gave to them to become a free nation.  Until then, the eyes of our generation and those following will be cast upon them to see if they stand up and become free. 

I attended a military promotion ceremony today to honor a very special friend who is serving his country as an Air Commando in the United States Air Force Special Operations Command.  The ceremony was brief but conducted with the formality, customs, and fashion commensurate with promoting the service and self-sacrifices this young warrior has given in the name of protecting the freedoms we enjoy as Americans. 

The ceremony was attended by virtually every member of his family to include his new bride, adult son, sister, and parents - many of whom had traveled great distances to witness the occasion of his promotion.  There were also close friends, teammates, co-workers and, of course, his commanding officer. 

The commander spoke highly of this warrior's achievements and poignantly spoke about how his promotion was not so much about his accomplishments but an affirmation of his potential.  The achievements were impressive indeed and served to remind me of the high caliber of men and women we truly have who willingly stand watch over the heartbeat of America as she goes about her daily life.  I was particularly impressed because, having worked alongside this young warrior on occasion throughout the world, I had no idea of the depth and breadth of his talents, experience and accomplishments. 

As I watched family members ceremoniously pin on his new rank of Major, I witnessed the pride exude from each one, unique in their own expressive manner.  I watched as an amazing transformation took place in the demeanor and appearance of this humble warrior as the new rank symbols assumed their resting place upon his shoulders.  Pride welled up within me that a select few truly understand.  I've been many places over the years with this warrior and have watched him grow into the leader he is today.  To be in the company of great men is an honor and this was certainly one of those occasions.

When he was given the opportunity to speak and "say a few words" as they say, he spoke with a new voice.  His message was not atypical of the warrior spirit and ethos.  I say that because he started by thanking those whom had arrived to share in the occasion and to his commander for presiding over the ceremony as any humble warrior would.  I watched as he reflected on the moment and was slightly overcome by emotion as he tried to articulate his own gratitude to "the sheer amount of heroes" he had the honor to serve alongside over the years, especially in the special operations community.  He touted the command as the best in the Air Force, and among the most quiet and humble branches of the services - and just as it should be considering he is a member who personifies those qualities.

We thank you for your service and will always remember and honor your personal sacrifices to safeguard our Amercian values and keep us safe from the tyrannies of oppression!  Congratulations on your most deserving promotion to Major.

Godspeed!

- G -

Welcome to All-American Warriors!

AAW is a place for like-minded passionate Americans to share their views on anything American.  There's a lot going on in our country so I don't suspect we'll run out of focus topics.  This forum was designed with you, the passionate American, in mind so please feel free to articulate what it is you're passionate about. 

Whether you agree with the current state of affairs, America's direction on the path of life, or its political or socioeconomic standing in the world, there's something that no doubt ignites your passion.  You're invited to share that passion right here.  The blog posts you'll find here are designed to serve as a springboard to interactivity and constructive dialogue among its members.  We all have opinions and will often disagree on details but I believe we all share the desire for our country to stand out as the great country we truly know it to be. 

This week's topic is economics.  Now here's something we can sink our teeth into!  The number one area of concern among Americans is the state of our economy.  What do YOU believe the biggest obstacle is to economic growth and prosperity in our country?  When or where did we take that wrong turn?  There's a lot of rhetoric and finger-pointing coming out of Washington these days that has literally taken the proverbial wind out of the sails of American economics. 

America spoke up when they changed the balance of power last year in Congress.  Did it do any good or should we have done the same in the Senate as well?  As we all know now, balance doesn't always result in agreement.  In fact, quite the opposite has happened.  A republican majority in the house and a democratic majority in the senate has actually resulted in political positioning, discord, and stalemate.  Was it any better when a majority ruled both houses?  Or is that too much power?  How do we fix this?  One thing is clear...crystal clear.  Wall Street doesn't care for it one bit! 

In a future post we'll chat about LEADERSHIP at the local and national and international levels in more detail.  For now, let's try to stay on point with respect to American economics and its effect on us individually and collectively as a nation. 

Some things to get you started...Are you better off financially today or worse off?   Do you have a job?   Is it the job you want?   Will it be there tomorrow?  Are we in a double-dip recession?  What have you done to sheild yourself from the decline? 

There's so much to talk about when it comes to the America we all desire.  Post your opinions and passions on this week's topic and feel free to make suggestions for the format you'd like to see here.  Try to stay on point as best you can and please be respectful of other's opinions.  because after all, passionate topics bring about passionate positions.  Yours is no less important than anyone else's...it may just be different.  Write on fellow Warriors!