This Independence Day, pause for Iraq, Afghanistan
By Peter Elliott | Contributing Editor of Everyday Christian
Posted 7:03 am on July 03, 2009
With much of the news this past week focused on the aftermath of Michael Jackson’s death and Mark Sanford’s mea culpa, it wouldn’t take much to overlook the milestone developments in Iraq and Afghanistan.
The withdrawal of American troops from Iraqi cities was met with public celebrations and concerns about the ability of the domestic military and police forces’ ability to consistently maintain order.
Simultaneously, U.S. forces have engaged in a large new offensive against the Taliban sweeping through the mountains of southern Afghanistan.
It would be easy to click off the political missteps and controversy in Iraq from “Mission Accomplished” on down or remind us again why Afghanistan has been uncontrollable by foreign powers for centuries. That’s not the point here.
Particularly with the fun of Independence Day with fireworks and barbecues upon us once more, glancing past what has happened this week is a mistake. Every time I hear stories of soldiers going back for third and fourth tours overseas I can’t help but be moved by their commitment to duty.
It’s OK to be interested in what happens next with Michael Jackson. I am too. Just don’t forget the important sacrifices being made today that help make July 4th what it is.
Tags: Afghanistan, Independence Day, Iraq
Peter Elliott is a veteran news and sports journalist. He enjoys interviewing others about how God works in their lives and sharing that with readers. He is also a lifelong, long-suffering Chicago Cubs fan. He resides in Indianapolis with his wife and three sons.
Related Articles and Blogs
- Iraqi Christians Face Uncertain Future As U.S. Troop Presence Recedes
- Iraq War Vet Carries Cross From California to South Carolina
- Christian Aid Group Mourns Slaying of 10 Workers in Afghanistan
- Lunchtime Links: July 28, 2010
- Celebrate Independence Day With Words of Wisdom
- Is There a Moral Imperative to Leave Afghanistan?
- Declaration of Independence and Dependence Upon God
More Posts by This Author
- The Challenge Of Raising Christian Teens
- Green Bay Packers Quarterback Aaron Rodgers: Just How Good Is He?
- Lunchtime Links: August 27, 2010
- Lunchtime Links: August 26, 2010
- Sanitation a Major Roadblock to Haiti Recovery
- Book Excerpt: ‘Reluctant Pilgrim’ by Emuna Okoro
- Lunchtime Links: August 25, 2010
Latest Comments (0)