It is almost a contradiction in terms to look to battlefields for evidence of heroic deeds by members of the military. One notable exception was Warrant Officer Hugh Thompson who, while flying his helicopter over My Lai, in Vietnam, witnessed the slaughter of old men, women, and children being carried out by Lt. William Calley and a gang of American soldiers. After initial efforts to get these men to cease the killing of their helpless victims failed, Thompson landed his helicopter between the soldiers and their intended victims, and told his crew members to open fire on any soldiers who continued their fire. The killing immediately ended; the crimes were reported; and those responsible for the murders were tried and convicted.
Those who kill on behalf of the state can hardly be thought of as “heroes.” That label more appropriately belongs to the (few) men like Hugh Thompson!
8:20 pm on November 8, 2011
