Congress repeating errors in Afghanistan

Dear Sen. Durbin:

I am reminded of a letter I wrote to Congressman Henry Hyde in 1983. You can assign a junior aide to look it up in the May 24, 1983, edition of the Congressional Record. Sadly, what I said in my letter then is just as appropriate today.

I have a close friend, born in Afghanistan of Portuguese parents. They were missionaries. He grew up there, knew the people, fought the Russians, and knew Charlie Wilson. He is now a naturalized American and early on offered to return to Afghanistan as an interpreter and guide. He was turned down flat with not so much as a simple thank you. That single act told both of us that we aren't really that serious in this so-called war on terrorism.

Once again, troops have been committed to combat. Once again, members of Congress are wringing their hands and making cut-and-run noises. Once again, our generals are being called on the carpet. Once again, our troops on the ground are being dangled in harm's way. What better way to shatter morale among the ranks?

Armies are killing machines. Don't add nation building to their mission. That is for the diplomats to handle.

Wails of anguish come out of Washington over civilian casualties. It is indeed a sad and unintended consequence, yet it is a very real part of war, any war. Either know it going in and accept it or run away.

Iraq was the biggest foolhardy blunder of all. Afghanistan and bin Laden should have been the highest priority. Now you may have blown it twice. First, when Congressman Wilson tried to do some good, and now in what happens next. Launching two wars severely diluted resources and completely muddled and diffused the mission.

Robert D. Packham

Hanover Park