Letter: Reasons for Marine’s anti-war stance ignored
(May 15, 2009)
A few issues touched in Pat Wray’s (May 8) coverage of Benjamin Lewis’ recent anti-war talk and refusal to accept a third Iraq tour are too complex for this space.
However, some criticism may be in order. For example, Wray never examines Lewis’ motives and — as Bob Stebbins’ May 11 letter shows — this omission opens Wray to charges that he accepts the old excuse, “I only followed orders,” and expects Lewis to follow every order regardless of the man’s moral compunctions.
And Wray’s attack on Lewis’ “willingness” for others to replace him also raises questions. Momentarily assuming, as Wray seems to do, that our Mideast operations are justified, two important questions arise: Because Lewis is already a two-tour veteran, shouldn’t others share the service burden? Answer: yes. And where are Lewis’ replacements? Answer: Everywhere. Millions of healthy men are available in all walks of life.
We’re told that America faces a great terrorist threat. If that is true, and our war is justified, then we must all (except conscientious objectors) share the burdens.
In past wars, men were drafted and served. Today, thanks to hypocrisy, privilege, ignorance and political cowardice, we do nothing. We allow others to sacrifice the blood, limbs, lives and loved ones. If our war is a mistake, we should protest it vigorously and force a Mideast withdrawal now. If not, renew universal conscription.
Ernest Richter, Corvallis
