[ghporter]

Originally Posted by art_director 

Gottcha.

I agree as well. I'd use other terms, like "criminally mismanaged", but the sentiment is the same. GOING INTO AFGHANISTAN when we did and for the reason we did was RIGHT. But we should have gone in ready to do all that it took to finish the job promptly and thoroughly. The troops have done their best, but it's hard to do anything without resources.

Originally Posted by art_director 

The troop levels should have Americans breaking down the doors of the White House and Congress. Our troops have been getting neglected. Our leadership -- Rep and Dem alike, has been negligent.

Absolutely. Kicking the Taliban into the dustbin of history got the short shrift when we dedicated huge amounts of manpower and equipment to kicking Saddam's butt. That should have, at most, gone on until we had Baghdad. It's still going on. Bad job, "leaders."

Originally Posted by art_director 

When I mention this to "patriotic" Americans I get verbally accosted. I don't hold anything against the people doing it, rather, I pity them for their ignorance.

The "guise of patriotism" is a useful tool for fools and poltroons. I tend to think that Samuel Johnson was using the word in this context. Idiots can call themselves "patriotic" and put flag stickers (made in China) all over their cars, but unless they DO SOMETHING ABOUT IT, they're just airbags.

My soapbox time is up for now.

[peeb]

Well, at least we agree on something.

[ghporter]

Originally Posted by peeb 

Well, at least we agree on something.

And that is where understanding starts. Greetings!