We're Still at War

Yesterday's (Fri, Nov. 20, 2009) Mother Jones reminds us that we're still at war with their photo of the day:

Members of the rifle detail perform a 3-volley salute during 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment's memorial service for nine Marines and one sailor killed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Hundreds attended the memorial service Tuesday morning that took place between Hangars 1 and 2 aboard Marine Corps Base Hawaii. (US Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Mark Fayloga.)  http://www.motherjones.com/mojo/2009/11/were-still-war-photo-day-november-20-2009

One of my brightest students asserted in class this week that you wouldn't know our nation is at war if you just walked around any big American city all day.  I think she's right.  What a shame.

But not "shame on you" to the American people.  Shame on the Bush administration for insisting on a policy of keeping the images from us.  Shame on the military for following the policy.

Recently the Obama administration loosened the rules on the publication of photos of returning dead soldiers.  Our media should make it a priority to cover these funerals so that we are always reminded of the human cost of our war.  The wars in Iraq and Afghanistan are too far removed from us as it is now.  A democratic nation should be in constant conversation about the best use of our finances and military lives.  We need it put in front of us or that conversation never happens.

If you're a movie goer, I suggest you see the new film The Messenger, when it comes to your town.  I was fortunate to see it last night and listen to the writers and producers discuss why they made it.

The Messenger (2009): http://www.themessengermovie.com/