Republican "Courage"

Yesterday, November 17, 2005, Representative John Murtha-D, PA proposed that we stop using our brave servicemen and women as "human shields" for the perpetrators of a half-cocked and dangerous strategy in Iraq. Representative Murtha earned two Purple Hearts and a Bronze Star in Vietnam. Until yesterday, he has been among the most hawkish of Democrats.

Dennis Hastert-R, IL responded that we "must not cower" and accused Murtha of insulting the troops. J. D. Hayworth-R, AZ lectured Murtha that Americans are made of "sterner stuff." Roy Blunt-R, MO talked about Democrats "undermining our troops" from their Washington offices. John Carter-R, TX accused Murtha of wanting to "take the cowardly way out."

The courage of these men is inspiring. How brave they must have been in combat! Well, no. Mr Hastert, 0 minutes in combat, 0 minutes in uniform. Mr. Hayworth, 0 minutes in combat, 0 minutes in uniform. Mr. Blunt, 0 minutes in combat, 0 minutes in uniform. Mr. Carter, 0 minutes in combat, 0 minutes in uniform. What a great bunch to send young people to be maimed and die; what a great bunch to criticize a war hero! I nominate all four of them to put on a uniform and ride in convoys until we "finish the job." Too old? How old is too old when it comes to serving as a target?