News Analysis: December 31, 2008
We say goodbye to 2008 and hope 2009 brings relief to our burdened troops and military families stretched thin and laid low by two wars. This is especially true for the war in Iraq, which was not at all mixed up in the attacks of 9/11 and never had the weapons of mass destruction we were assured they were preparing to use against us. Iraq continues to be a costly operation, and Afghanistan promises to no longer be the forgotten war.
Three tours to Iraq is more than enough to prompt serious questions by those who did the fighting. Despite some improvements, our troops are still at risk. Even so, our troops still deploy for Iraq regularly — feeling this most acutely are our National Guard members. We have faith they will do their jobs and hope they return safe and sound to their families as soon as possible.
For the money our nation is spending on the war, our troops should never be wanting for proper medical care. They deserve the best care our nation can muster.
PTSD, as all readers of this site and everyone in this country should well know is plaguing our combat troops, must be better dealt with — and the VA must act. Some state laws help war veterans; more can be done.