Here's a letter to the editor I wrote that didn't get published.
Jack Layton states that Canada's current role in Afghanistan contradicts Canada's traditional role as "peacekeepers." This statement ignores our military history as tough, resourceful, and honourable soldiers that saw the Canadian military through its first hundred years and several wars. This hard won battle prowess supplied our soldiers with the credibility required to be effective "peacekeepers."
Try to imagine what Mr. Layton is demanding. In Afghanistan, Canada brought hope; our young soldiers are saving civilian lives everyday by their mere presence. Over a tour, the soldiers get to know the locals pretty well; seeing their own children in the eyes of the Afghani children. Their unit may build a small school, handout school supplies, dig a well, set up a medical clinic or fix some homes. It won't make the papers back home; but the soldier knows they have helped. They care about these people. Rotating back home is easier knowing the people you've helped won't be abandoned and your "little" victories will be built upon by soldiers replacing you.
If Jack Layton gets his way, our soldiers will be forced to abandon these people, stripping them of their hope and placing a death sentence on anyone who cooperated. It is a horrible burden to place on anyone. Perhaps, Mr. Layton should have a heart-to-heart with Senator Dallaire. Senator Dallaire can explain first-hand the soul ripping cost paid by the soldier when politicians from thousands of miles away decide to abandon their responsibilities.
