Release of photos would incite our foes

My personal conviction regarding the issues that pertain to the safety, security and prosperity of the American people is both passionate and pragmatic. It is in the best interest of international stability and peace to withhold the photos of the dead Osama bin Laden until countries in the Middle East and Northern Africa develop functioning and capable governments of their own, dictated by the sound principles of self-determination, cooperation, individual liberties and human rights.

As the United States of America, we lead in the effort of securing free people’s right to determine their own destiny, and that includes our obligation to defend our homeland and our people from external and internal threats. Our world can be best characterized as a vast macrocosm of individuals collectively pursuing their different paths on that same highway of hopes and dreams. By releasing photos of bin Laden, the threat of international and homegrown terrorism would only be enhanced, thereby defeating the very intent and purpose of our honorable mission to, once and for all, deliver bin Laden the justice that he deserved.

The flames of discontent would be ignited if photos were to be posted on social networking websites, various international forums, and government agency websites. Our alliances would be weakened and tensions between foes would be broadened. As the international community begins to fully absorb the scope and meaning of his death, we must fully assess the benefits and implications for our country and various terrorist networks around the world. I have faith that, as Abraham Lincoln once said, “right makes might,” and we must stand tall in the face of already existing international pressure and never cease to defend our own core principles, connections with the international community, and impulse to defend our country.

Henry Wilson

Barrington