"I'd rather see this country overrun
than see my kids go to war."
So said a woman I've known since childhood. Someone I thought I knew well.
After the initial shock of her words I am still baffled, almost a year
later, as to how an American can reach such a point of apathy about national
defense.
While her statement probably stems from maternal instinct regarding her two
children (who are small), I worry this may be a common, though unspoken,
sentiment of many Americans. Do others have the "not my kid" mentality? Is
individual security more valued than freedom for all? Are people teaching
their children the defense of this nation is something beneath
consideration?
Maybe I am out of step -- a patriotic anachronism. Perhaps my attachment to
the military culture and community is reflected in my attitude and belief
system. As a child, my values were initially instilled by my parents, both
veterans. Yet my friend's father is a veteran, too. It's distressing if
this man's contribution to protecting the country went unnoticed in his own
home.
If I could turn back the clock to the moment of her frightening statement,
this is what I would have told my friend:
Your complacency about national defense is a dangerous habit.
Of all the things you lie awake worrying about, I'll bet your sleep has
never been interrupted by the fear rebels will pound down your door and drag
you, your husband or your children out of your home. Likewise, I'd wager
you've never had a nightmare where the "Stars and Stripes" was replaced by
some unknown flag of a strange regime.
You, my friend, can raise your two children in a time where fear of invasion
only happens to people in distant countries. As your little ones lie
dreaming, there are sons and daughters of America stationed all over the
world who keep your youngsters safe. Airmen, sailors, soldiers and Marines
are prepared to die to defend your liberties and your front door. Because
they have volunteered to be vigilant, it allows many Americans to be
blissfully unaware of the dangerous place the world can be.
While you may slumber, others have not. In this country's history, there
have been countless mothers and wives who spent sleepless nights wondering
what happened to their child or husband who never returned from war. In
their heartbreak and loneliness, perhaps they found some measure of comfort
and pride knowing their loved one disappeared or died so others could come
home. This country remains free as a result of veterans' sacrifices. I
imagine those women's faces as you say, "I'd rather see this country overrun
than see my kids to war."
Remember, the children you hold so dear are also America's children. As
part of this nation, they are probably some of the best protected and most
privileged children on the planet. That privilege comes with a price tag.
For all of our faults, societal ills and past mistakes, the United States is
still our chosen home. Or is there somewhere else you would rather live?
If forced to leave, where would you go?
Not long ago, I watched as a father patiently read and explained to his two
young sons the Gettysburg Address etched in stone at Lincoln's monument in
D.C. I wonder if the words made an impression. Did the boys grasp the
meaning? Did they appreciate the sacrifice? Did they understand this
nation's freedom has a cost, perhaps of their own lives someday?
Hopefully, this father will be successful in his lessons on liberty. For
America's future, I hope his two children come to understand patriotism,
loyalty and the courage to defend. Because for those two children who grow
up to understand, I worry there may be two who do not.
