It’s pretty much on record that after the 9/11 attacks, Osama bin Ladin was expecting nothing more than a small, token, response by the United States. He figured that the US didn’t have it in us to do much more than that, and perhaps rightfully so. After the 1998 embassy attacks in Kenya and Tanzania that killed 224 people (including 12 Americans) and injured 5,000 others, the United States responded with just a few missile launches into Afghanistan.
Yet our response to 9/11 was so much more. The US obliterated the Taliban. Special Forces and drone strikes systematically eliminated top al-Qaeda leaders. The terrorist group became unorganized, splintered, and even hated among Muslims themselves. Bin Ladin’s stature was diminished and his dreams thwarted. Even 10 years later, Osama himself now ceases to exist.
Chicago Tribune, April 16, 2013Just as important, the attacks brought this country closer. There were American flags flying on every street. Scores volunteered to fight those who dared attack the US. A new appreciation was gained for the men and women who fight for our freedom and values. Citizens routinely thanked those in the military for their service. Receptions and celebrations for soldiers returning home have become commonplace and emotional.
We continually talk about not letting the terrorist win. They’re not. Nor will they ever.
After the bombings in Boston, once again we saw the country come together. Two days ago I showed how Chicago Blackhawks’ fans came together to show their support during the national anthem.
Now, there’s a response from Boston themselves. This is the national anthem from the Bruins-Sabres game; the first game played since the bombing. Here is but another example of what love of country and togetherness looks like. We’re winning and here’s proof.
c’est la vie
Sorry ’bout that.
We’re not at war with Islam. We’re at war with a very small number of people who happen to be of the Islamic religion and/or who follow a very warped interpretation of the doctrine. There’s a difference.
I’d even argue that sociology and government oppression leads to acts of violence that some are doing in the name of their religion. Again, not Islam directly.
Ceste la vie!
Excellent post and pretty much on target except for obliterating the Taliban. They are still a threat and probably why our troops are still there? The bombings continue in Iraq and there seems to be no shortage of suicide bombers elsewhere.
This is a religious war that will continue for the rest of my life and yours. As long as good Muslims tolerate the scum radicals in their midst the terror will continue. Islam appears to have a goal of world conquest and denial of that reality is foolish.
When politicians look at these wars a common claim is “its all about oil.” In this instance that is so true. The Saudi commitment to Wahhabi is responsible in large measure to the hatred directed to the west, yet we send them billions of dollars every year — for what? Oil.
I have much more at the our website page that covers some of this topic. The video is astounding.
Actually, while writing it, I wasn’t too sure on the use of the word “obliterated”. I had a feeling someone might call me out on that one…
And while Islam certainly wants to expand their religion (as does Christianity and every other one), I don’t know if “world conquest” is quite accurate. But certainly – they want to grow big time.
I stand by the “world conquest” description. It fits perfectly if you believe the Muslim signs they carry in protests and their campaign for sharia law in the US.
Yes, religions want to attract people, but the only religion(?) that I know about that stands by and watches while their zealots kill and maim innocent civilians (including children) is Islam. And they recruit suicide bombers for this cowardly dirty work.
I particularly like this quote:
“Those who say religion has nothing to do with politics do not know what religion is.” … Mohandas K. Gandhi
Mike, this World War we are in with Islam is the politics we should abhor instead of quibbling among ourselves.