The definition of war keeps changing. Centuries ago armed men invaded a country and took it over. We Americans now invade a country and give it back to the opposition parties. Whether it is Iraq, Afghanistan, or maybe Syria, this seems to be our new policy. Are we sure we’re doing each country a favor? Thousands of people are dying not only in Syria but many other countries. We have the most powerful military in the world, and we patrol the high seas, land and skies around the world. How should we use our young men and women?
President Reagan made a list of four things to consider when the possibility of war arose. (http://spectator.org/archives/2013/09/03/reagans-rules-for-military-act/2)
Reagan Rule 1: The United States should not commit its forces to military actions overseas unless the cause is vital to our national interest.
Reagan Rule 2: If the decision is made to commit our forces to combat abroad, it must be done with the clear intent and support to win. It should not be a halfway or tentative commitment, and there must be clearly defined and realistic objectives.
Reagan Rule 3: Before we commit our troops to combat, there must be reasonable assurance that the cause we are fighting for and the actions we take will have the support of the American people and Congress.
Reagan Rule 4: Even after all these other tests are met, our troops should be committed to combat only as a last resort, when no other choice is available.
If we are going to war, begin with the end in mind.
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