60 Minutes aired a story tonight (February 25) regarding some military personnel who are not happy with the Iraq War. They titled the story, “GIs Petition Congress To End Iraq War.”

Since I am a veteran, I thought I would comment about the story.

On their website, “Appeal to Redress” they want members of the military to send this message to their elected representatives, “As a patriotic American proud to serve the nation in uniform, I respectfully urge my political leaders in Congress to support the prompt withdrawal of all American military forces and bases from Iraq . Staying in Iraq will not work and is not worth the price. It is time for U.S. troops to come home.”

I have no problem with their petition. When I served in the military, I contacted my elected representatives frequently. But, I did not go to the media afterwards and that’s what’s wrong with what these people did.

Shame on 60 Minutes for airing it.

As all of us know who have worn our country’s uniform, the military way of life is not a democracy. You sign your name on the contract with the government for a certain number of years. They pay you for your service. During this time, you are property of the military. You go where you are sent. You salute and march on.

Nobody likes going to war, especially those who are serving in the military.

A few comments just for those people who participated in the 60 Minutes story:

First I would say to these people, thank you for your service and patriotism. You have made a difference, just like every veteran who has gone before you, but not by what you did in this 60 Minutes story.

Second, I would highly suggest that you get out of the military as soon as possible. Just walk into your commander’s office and ask to get out. You have harmed morale and aided the enemy. I would not want to be on a patrol with you. I am sure you wouldn’t want your fellow military personnel going on a patrol with you, now that they know who you are. I am sure most of you will now have a direct ticket to get out no matter what the Whistleblower Act says.

Third, if you do not like the policies that are coming from your elected officials, run for their seat or support people who believe the way you do.

Finally, I leave you with these quotes from George S. Patton, General, U.S. Army:

-“There is only one sort of discipline, perfect discipline.”
-“I am a soldier, I fight where I am told, and I win where I fight.”
-“If I do my full duty, the rest will take care of itself.”
-“You’re never beaten until you admit it.”